NHS hospitals are under extreme pressure in all 4 countries across the UK. Winter 2024 has seen bed occupancy levels hitting 100% in some trusts and corridor care is rife. 

Although reasons for this are multifactorial, lack of investment in social care has been highlighted by clinicians and commentators as one cause. 

Lack of access to appropriate care is resulting in unnecessary hospital admissions and preventing timely discharges.  

Prolonged hospital stays can result in increased need, with this being associated with deconditioning, higher falls risks, and demand for mental health support. 

Good, well-led social care costs less than acute hospital stays, promotes better health and well-being for individuals, and is essential for a successful integrated health and social care system. Care delivered to individuals in their own place of residence is preferable to in an acute hospital setting if appropriate. 

Across the UK, the RCN continues to call for improved investment and commitments to better pay in the adult social care sector. 

Should the UK and devolved governments be investing in Social Care as a priority even over increased investment to the NHS itself, to deliver the best care to people, in their preferred place of care? 

References

NHS England (2025) Winter Sitreps Summary Page Week 11. Available at: winter-sitreps-summary-page-week-11.xlsx