Clients, Consumers or Citizens?: The Privatisation of Adult Social Care in England

The book "The Market and the State in Adult Social Care" explores the transfer of adult social care from the state to the market in England, examining the thinking behind the strategy, its impacts, and alternative models for a post-Covid-19 future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 194 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2021
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The transfer of adult social care from the state to the market in England marked a significant milestone in social policy. Looking back over the past forty years, it is crucial to examine the rationale behind this strategy, its effects on care commissioners and providers, the care workforce, and the individuals who rely on care and support services. In his comprehensive book, Bob Hudson delves into these transformations, challenging the prevailing market paradigm and exploring alternative models for a post-Covid-19 future. He also situates the debate within the broader realm of political thinking and policy change.

The shift towards market-based adult social care in England was driven by various factors. One of the primary drivers was the desire to increase efficiency and reduce government spending. The government believed that by privatizing care services, they could leverage private sector expertise and innovation to improve the quality and affordability of care. Additionally, the market-based approach was seen as a way to empower individuals and encourage self-reliance by giving them more choice and control over their care arrangements.

However, the transfer of adult social care to the market has had far-reaching consequences. One of the most significant impacts has been on the care workforce. Many care workers, who were previously employed by the state, have lost their jobs or seen their wages and conditions decline. This has led to concerns about the quality and safety of care services, as well as the well-being of care workers themselves.

Another impact of the market-based approach has been on the individuals who use care and support services. Many people have found it difficult to access the care they need, particularly those with complex needs or limited resources. The market-based system has also led to increased competition between care providers, which can result in lower quality care and reduced choice for consumers.

Despite these challenges, there are also proponents of the market-based approach to adult social care. They argue that it has led to greater efficiency and innovation in the care sector, as well as increased choice and control for consumers. Additionally, they argue that the market can provide a more responsive and flexible care system that can better meet the changing needs of individuals as they age.

In conclusion, the transfer of adult social care from the state to the market in England has had a significant impact on care commissioners, providers, the care workforce, and individuals who use care and support services. While there are benefits to the market-based approach, there are also concerns about the quality and safety of care services, as well as the impact on the care workforce. It is important to continue to monitor and evaluate the effects of this policy shift to ensure that it is meeting the needs of those who rely on care and support services.

Weight: 302g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447355700