New protection if care providers fail
Consultation on new measures to protect people who rely on care services in the event of provider failure.
The government is proposing a system of checks on the finances of the largest care companies to give an early warning of potential problems, and to challenge financial systems which could be unsustainable or reduce quality.
Under the new proposals the government would also introduce regulation of major care providers and, if a provider failed, there would be plans to support a well managed exit.
The plans include measures to:
- oversee financial performance of providers
- challenge business models to make sure they can support the delivery of quality care services
- ensure businesses develop plans to recover from financial distress
- provide the regulator with information to develop contingency plans with local authorities for continuing care in the event of a failure
- coordinate and communicate with local authorities and relevant parties in the event of failure to ensure people’s care and support needs continue to be met
The government would particularly like to hear from care providers, service users, investors and others involved in the social care sector.
Further informationIf you would like to ask a question on any of the points raised in this consultation please email the Department of Health social care policy and legislation team: market oversight consultation team