Fraser Rickatson
Policy Manager, Care England
In the drive to build a resilient health and social care system, adult social care is the NHS’s most essential yet under-resourced partner.
While prevention efforts traditionally focus on stopping illness onset, an equally crucial aspect is preventing the worsening of pre-existing conditions. This is where adult social care excels, providing critical support that helps individuals manage their chronic conditions effectively within their communities thus avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions.
Reducing hospital strain with preventative social care
Effective adult social care not only prevents people from needing emergency care but also stabilises and improves their conditions, thereby reducing their risk of hospitalisation. By enabling timely interventions that keep people healthy and independent, social care providers play a vital role in sustaining overall healthcare delivery. Yet, the sector remains chronically underfunded and often seen as separate from mainstream healthcare. As a result, essential preventative support is lacking, leading to avoidable strain on hospitals: 45% of delayed discharges, for instance, are linked to social care shortages (Care Quality Commission, 2024).
Role of ICBs and policymakers in prevention
To address these challenges, integrated care boards (ICBs), local authorities (LAs) and national policymakers must recognise that prevention is not just about halting illness; it’s also about intervening to stop conditions from escalating. With adequate funding and resources, social care can be organised to act as a buffer against the progression of illnesses, supporting people where they live and keeping hospitals available for acute care needs. This requires ICBs to integrate social care into health planning fully, seeing it as a partner that complements and extends the reach of the NHS rather than a separate entity.
Social care providers play a
vital role in sustaining overall
healthcare delivery.
Building a resilient ecosystem with social care investment
Strengthening adult social care in a preventative capacity would lead to fewer hospital admissions, improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. For this to succeed, funding must prioritise workforce development to mitigate severe staff shortages and digital innovation to streamline care coordination.
Call to invest in social care for prevention
By investing in adult social care as a primary preventative measure, ICBs, LAs and the national Government can create a healthcare ecosystem that not only prevents the onset of illness but also halts its progression, fostering independence and resilience among those who require the most support.
