Paul Cann‚ Director of Policy and External Relations at Help the Aged‚ says:

“This report shows that the Government’s aspirations of putting people first are far from a reality.  Despite some overall improvements‚ this report shows that far too many older people are still forced to endure second-rate care at the hands of our failing social care system. 

“Social care should not just be about managing the needs of the most debilitated‚ it should be about supporting older people to live a better life.  Vast numbers of older people are being denied care because their needs are not considered a priority – all too often they are left to fend for themselves or rely on family and friends.

“The general failure of the system is also reflected in the large number of staff vacancies - care isn't being valued and until it is‚ more and more older people will continue to miss out.  Care homes are still struggling to care.

“The Government will never deliver on its ambition for care unless appropriate resources are put in place.”

Gordon Lishman‚ Director General of Age Concern‚ says:

“The report highlights the widespread discrimination against older people in the drive to more personalised care.

“Older people who get direct payments are likely to get far less money than younger people with similar needs.

“We are also very concerned at the lack of information‚ advice and support for those receiving direct payments.

“As we reach this critical stage of the debate about the reform of care services‚ it is vital that the new regulator gives sufficient weight to care as well as health regulation.”