Responding to the Budget, Dr Rhidian Hughes, Chief Executive of the Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG) representing over 100 disability charities says:
‘Today’s budget presented a much-needed opportunity to address the disproportionate cost-of-living faced by disabled households, kick start cross-party talks on social care and sure up third sector provision of support for disabled people.
‘That opportunity was missed.
‘While there is welcome investment for SEND, carers, the NHS and local government, including an increase in the Disabled Facilities Grant, today’s budget falls far short of the commitment needed to put social care on a surer footing.
‘The government continue to support previously planned cuts to disability benefit and provide lacklustre investment in social care, which will do very little to give third sector providers the long-term stability they need.
‘While the commitments to raise National Living Wage and improve workers’ rights are of course welcome, the fact that plans, including a rise in employer National Insurance contributions, remain unfunded, disregards the significant pressures already facing providers.
‘70% of charities are already under funded for the services they are commissioned to deliver, with the vast majority of costs being staff costs. This issue cannot continue to be ignored, while the NHS receives real terms growth, as if the two are not inextricably linked.
‘There must be urgent action taken to address the right of disabled children and adults to access the support they need, in a way and place they choose. The third sector bring tremendous value to society, but the Government’s current approach to social care provision once again leaves invaluable support at significant risk.’
The Voluntary Organisations Disability Group is the membership body representing over 100 voluntary sector organisations who support and work alongside disabled people.
To find out more visit https://www.vodg.org.uk/
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