Liaise welcomes Andy Burnham’s commitment to making adult social care a national priority and recognising the essential role it plays in helping people live independent, fulfilling lives.

The decision to bring forward the Casey Review, alongside plans for closer integration between health and social care, is a clear signal that social care reform is being given the attention it deserves.

At Liaise, we see every day how the right support can transform lives. Through specialist services for people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs and complex care requirements, we know that great experiences are achieved when people are supported in their communities, with care that is built around their strengths, goals and aspirations. It is encouraging to see community-based support and joined-up services recognised as key priorities for the future of the sector.

In England, around 1.3 million people have a learning disability, and there are an estimated 700,000 autistic people across the UK, according to NHS England and the Women and Equalities Committee. Many are of working age, and a significant proportion experience additional complex needs, behaviours of distress and co-occurring mental health conditions that require specialist support. We look forward to hearing more about how the Government intends to support these individuals and ensure they can access the high-quality, specialist care they need to live safe, meaningful and independent lives.

We were also pleased to hear the Prime Minister highlight the value of the social care workforce. Across Liaise, and throughout the wider sector, dedicated colleagues make an extraordinary difference to people’s lives every day. Their commitment, skill and compassion are at the heart of high-quality care and support.

While there is still more detail to come, this feels like an important opportunity to build a more connected and sustainable care system that works better for the people who draw on support, their families and the professionals who deliver it.

We look forward to following the next stages of the Casey Review and contributing to the conversation about how social care can continue to evolve. We would also welcome further discussion with fellow care providers, commissioners and policymakers about how we can work together to improve outcomes for people who rely on specialist support services.