Ategi's Response to the Casey Commission Announcement

At Ategi, we welcome the government’s commitment to long-term reform of adult social care through the establishment of the Casey Commission. However, we share the sector’s deep concerns about the extended timescale, with meaningful changes not expected until 2028. For those in need of care and support today, this delay could have significant consequences on their quality of life, independence, and opportunities for meaningful connections.

The Impact of Delayed Reform

The need for adult social care reform is urgent. Many individuals and families are already struggling to navigate a system that is underfunded, overstretched, and unable to meet the needs of a growing population. Delaying reforms until 2028 risks exacerbating these challenges, leaving vulnerable people at risk of declining health, isolation, and diminished opportunities for independence.

In services like Shared Lives and Supported Living, we see firsthand the transformative impact of person-centred care. Shared Lives allows individuals to thrive in a family environment, fostering independence, confidence, and community integration. Supported Living empowers people to live safely and independently in their own homes with the tailored support they need. Expanding and enhancing these services now—not in five years—could make a substantial difference to thousands of lives.

The Role of Shared Lives, Community Support and Supported Living

Shared Lives, Community Support and Supported Living are proven models of care that deliver exceptional outcomes. They embody the values of dignity, independence, and choice that the government aims to promote through the Casey Commission. These models also represent cost-effective alternatives to traditional residential care, addressing many of the sector’s current challenges.

Immediate investment in these services could:

• Reduce pressures on emergency services by providing proactive and preventative care.
• Support people in their local communities, reducing the need for costly, long-term residential placements.
• Offer a stable, nurturing environment that builds lasting relationships and improves mental health.
• Equip people with the skills and confidence to live fulfilling, independent lives.

The Cost of Waiting

Waiting until 2028 to implement systemic change risks deepening inequalities and leaving many without the support they need. For individuals like Trevor, who found his self-worth and independence through Ategi’s Supported Living service, timely and personalised support is life-changing. These opportunities must be available to everyone who needs them—not delayed for years.

Call for Immediate Action

While we support the creation of a national care service and the cross-party approach proposed by the Casey Commission, we urge the government to take immediate steps to address urgent challenges:

1. Accelerate Reforms: Prioritise the implementation of changes that can be enacted in the short term, such as expanding Shared Lives, Community Support and Supported Living services.
2. Increase Funding: Provide immediate financial support to expand person-centered care models and address staffing shortages.
3. Invest in Prevention: Focus on preventative care that reduces emergency admissions and supports people to remain independent.

A Better Future, Starting Now

Ategi remains committed to working with the government, the Casey Commission, and other stakeholders to build a fair, sustainable, and effective adult social care system. By acting now to strengthen services like Shared Lives, Community Support and Supported Living, we can ensure that people receive the support they need today while laying the groundwork for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Many individuals and families are already struggling to navigate a system that is underfunded, overstretched, and unable to meet the needs of a growing population.