An @NHSEngland spokesperson says “people are stuck on wards unable to be discharged”.

In most places, there is enough capacity in homecare and care homes.

Many homecare providers avoid NHS work, though, because fee rates are half what is needed to cover costs and many ICBs don’t pay invoices for months. 

Communication with care providers is often poor, which is also a deterrent.

In places like Plymouth, fee rates for homecare have been too low for years - both NHS & council - so providers have to focus on private-pay work to remain afloat. Even then, it is marginal for many. It’s no wonder Derriford Hospital struggles.

We don’t need Darzi or Casey reviews to explain the problems. We need a government willing to address them. 

@ShaunLintern 
@homecareassn