UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has warned that the National Health Service (NHS) will struggle to cope unless the UK’s social care system undergoes major reform, saying the health service could “collapse” if long-standing problems are not addressed.
In his first major interview since taking office, Burnham said he does not want to leave office without delivering “substantial change” to social care. However, he declined to set a specific timetable for introducing a new system, saying his government is committed to finding a long-term solution rather than rushing reforms.
The prime minister explained that thousands of people who should be receiving support through social care are instead ending up in hospitals, placing increasing pressure on the NHS. He said fixing social care is essential to reducing hospital overcrowding and ensuring patients receive the right care in the right setting.
Burnham is expected to announce that the independent Casey Commission review into adult social care will be accelerated. While the commission’s final recommendations were originally expected in 2028, the government wants the process to move faster to help shape future reforms.
The prime minister also suggested that the government could tighten the conditions for receiving certain welfare benefits. He argued that more people should be supported into work where possible, while ensuring those who genuinely need assistance continue to receive it. Burnham said reducing the UK’s growing welfare bill must go hand in hand with improving employment support.
His comments have sparked political debate, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch urging the government not to fund social care reforms through higher taxes or increased borrowing. Meanwhile, health experts have welcomed Burnham’s focus on reform but stressed that any meaningful overhaul will require significant long-term investment.
Source: BBC
