Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is launching cross-party discussions on social care reform, a move he has identified as a top domestic priority. Burnham plans to engage with political leaders, including Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, to find a solution to the ongoing crisis in social care.
Burnham intends to ask Baroness Casey, who is currently reviewing the social care system, to accelerate her work. He has expressed a desire to implement significant changes before the next general election. The initiative, dubbed a 'Big Conversation on care,' aims to gather input from the public and experts on how to address the system's failures.
However, the proposed funding mechanism for these reforms is a significant point of contention. Burnham has consistently advocated for a 10 per cent 'social care levy' on inheritances, a proposal he put forward as health secretary in the last Labour government. This idea was previously criticized as a 'death tax' by political opponents. Reform UK has recently claimed that Burnham's plan could cost homeowners in his Makerfield constituency approximately £50,000 each, based on average house prices and wealth estimates.
Robert Jenrick, Reform UK's Treasury spokesman, criticized the proposal, stating it would impose a universal death tax and deplete people's savings. He argued that voters have previously rejected such measures and that it contradicts Burnham's 'Makerfield Test.'
Kemi Badenoch has indicated willingness to participate in talks but has warned against new tax increases, suggesting that any reform costs should be covered by reducing current spending. She emphasized that further tax rises or increased borrowing would burden the next generation, especially given the current economic challenges.
Baroness Casey commented that addressing adult social care involves more than just financial considerations. She highlighted the existing costs borne by individuals through council tax, NHS strain, personal savings, career sacrifices, and forced home sales. Casey stressed the need for an honest public conversation about building a better system.
Burnham acknowledged the diverse views on tackling the crisis but asserted his commitment to finding common ground and listening to others. He stated that it is time to move beyond political maneuvering, which he argues exacerbates the struggles of carers, families, and the NHS. Burnham framed the issue as a choice between deferring the problem to future generations or confronting it collaboratively to create a care system that offers dignity and security.