The Care Minister visited Wokingham borough to meet with care recipients and their families.
Stephen Kinnock MP, the Minister of State for Care, visited on Thursday, October 17, to hear first-hand about their experiences.
The visit, organised by the National Care Forum (NCF), began at the home of Ross, who is supported by Dimensions.
Ross shared how crucial his family's involvement is in his care and support.
His support worker, Diane Clementson, who has been with Dimensions for more than 20 years, expressed her love for her job but also highlighted the cost-of-living challenges faced by many of her colleagues.
She said: "Having worked in the care industry for over 20 years, it’s great to see the Care Minister taking an active interest in the lives of those who need care and their support networks.
"What we do truly matters but it’s not always recognised, so I’m grateful to have been able to speak to the Minister about the challenges we’re facing, particularly around ensuring people receive person-centred support and how the government is planning to address them."
The minister then visited Loddon Court, a short breaks service run by Optalis, where he learned about the services offered and the importance of short breaks for the well-being of the whole family unit.
The minister also met with representatives from NCF, Wokingham Borough Council Adult Services, Optalis, and Dimensions to discuss the strategic and economic value of social care.
He acknowledged the importance of the social care workforce and encouraged involvement in the development of the Fair Pay Agreement.
Mr Kinnock, said: "It was a privilege to see first-hand the services offered by Optalis and Dimensions.
"I know what an important role social care plays in communities across the country, and this visit was a fantastic demonstration of the difference that care and respite makes to people’s lives.
"There is much work to be done.
"We are committed to tackling the challenges facing social care, and we will work closely with the sector and across government and cross-party on our plans for effective reform."
Vic Rayner, National Care Forum CEO, said: "The Minister showed a strong interest in the work of NCF members Dimensions and Optalis.
"It was clear he was impressed by the dedication and commitment of staff he talked with.
"I was particularly pleased he was invited by Ross into his home, where he could properly understand the difference that person-centred support made to his life each and every day."
The visit allowed a chance to reflect on social care in healthy communities, and the importance of hearing from those in care, their families, and the care workforce in the formulation of future government priorities regarding care.
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