As of June 2024, 662,320 people in England were receiving long-term social care—an increase from the previous year. While the number of individuals in residential and nursing care remained steady, community-based social care saw a rise.
Figures released by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) last Thursday indicate that for every 100,000 adults in England, 1,450 accessed social care support. These statistics follow the DHSC’s recent announcement of immediate investment and reforms aimed at improving adult social care.
The report also highlights key sector trends. As of October 2024, care homes had an average occupancy rate of 86%, underscoring the pressures facing the system. Some areas are experiencing particularly high demand, with Hillingdon (96.19%), Tower Hamlets (96.17%), and Thurrock (95.13%) reporting the highest occupancy rates.
At the same time, social care recipient rates vary significantly across regions. The highest numbers are recorded in Middlesbrough (3,190), Wirral (2,753), and Blackpool (2,429), while the lowest are in Halton (269), Cornwall (702), and Windsor and Maidenhead (893).
Responses and policy outlook:
Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges:
“In the first six months of this government, work has already begun on stabilising the care sector, investing in prevention, and in carers and care workers. The investment and reforms we’re announcing today will help to modernise social care, get it working more closely with the NHS, and help deliver our Plan for Change.”
About this map:
The map below was created using our ‘Counties and Unitary Authorities 2023’ template, with data from the Department of Health and Social Care.
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