Andy Burnham’s first speech as Labour leader sets out a clear message; power needs to move closer to people and communities. For those of us working in social care, that principle isn’t abstract – it’s the foundation of what good care looks like.
His focus on ending fragmentation, rebuilding public services and giving people ‘hope back’ speaks directly to the challenges highlighted across our sector. Social care wasn’t the headline, but it was present in the wider call for a fairer, more accountable system that values the people who rely on care and the workforce who deliver it.
At ARC England, this aligns strongly with our strategy and the commitments we’ve made with members:
• Rights and inclusion: A shift of power back to communities mirrors our belief that people with learning disabilities and autistic people should shape the support they receive.
• Workforce respect and stability: Burnham’s emphasis on fairness for frontline workers echoes our call for better pay, conditions and recognition across social care.
• Co‑production and voice: His rejection of top‑down politics reinforces our commitment to co‑produced solutions, designed with people who draw on care and those who support them.
• System reform: The speech’s focus on rebuilding public services aligns with our work on commissioning, regulation, transitions and tackling the fragmentation that holds people back.
• Local leadership: A more devolved approach supports our belief that local partnerships between providers, councils, communities and people are where meaningful change happens.
As the national conversation shifts, ARC England will continue working alongside partners across the sector including ADASS, CQC and now national political leaders to ensure social care is not an afterthought but a central part of building a fairer, more hopeful future.
This moment is an opportunity. And we’re ready to play our part.
Samantha Leonard
ARC England Director