Ed Davey Makes Social Care Reform a Top Priority for 2026
Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, says that one of his main goals for 2026 is to fix the “broken” social care system in the UK and give better support to carers — people who look after sick, disabled or elderly family members. libdems.org.uk+1
Social care in the UK has faced growing problems in recent years. Services are stretched thin, and a huge number of unpaid carers work long hours without enough support. New research shows the number of unpaid carers working 35 hours a week or more has nearly doubled over two decades, leaving many struggling with financial and emotional pressures. IPPR
Davey has been outspoken about these challenges, partly because of his own experience as a carer. He has shared how his life caring for his disabled son and other family members has shaped his views on policy and why he thinks the system needs urgent reform. libdems.org.uk
In response to a recent National Audit Office (NAO) report, Davey called the scale of problems with the Carer’s Allowance — a benefit that helps unpaid carers — “staggering” and urged the government to stop demanding repayments from carers until the system is fixed. He said carers have been left in debt and distress because of flaws in how the benefit is handled. libdems.org.uk
The Liberal Democrats also want to improve the broader social care system by giving carers better pay and workplace rights, and by reducing barriers that make it harder for care workers to stay in their jobs. libdems.org.uk
Davey argues that supporting carers properly is not only fair, but also essential for the wider health and social care sector to function. With more care provided at home by family members, he believes the UK needs a system that recognises this reality and gives carers the help they need. IPPR
In simple terms:
Ed Davey wants 2026 to be a year where the UK makes real changes to fix social care and support carers better. His focus includes stopping unfair benefit repayments, improving pay and rights for carers, and making the system work for families and long‑term care providers. libdems.org.uk+1