There has been an ongoing conversation in the news recently about social care, policy and what the future may hold. Here at The Fifth Trust, we understand that when people hear the words ‘social care’, many picture care homes, hospitals or support for people when situations become critical. It is a conversation that often revolves around rising costs, stretched services and increasing demand.

These are important issues, but a key focus is often missed: building a social care system for the future that works not only in times of crisis, but is also embedded in our communities. If we can encourage inclusion and build on community involvement, we can create a resilient, caring society alongside a social care system that supports those who need it most every day, not just at the point of crisis.

For adults with learning disabilities, social care is about far more than meeting essential needs. At its best, it is about creating opportunities. Opportunities to learn new skills, develop confidence, build friendships, contribute to society, discover talents and live a life filled with purpose. That is where organisations like The Fifth Trust make a difference every single day.

Charities like The Fifth Trust sit within almost every community and serve as a place where people can gain independence, meaningful work, activities and social connection. At The Fifth Trust a student serving customers in our café is learning life skills, another student in Music is building friendships and a student in Art is gaining a sense of achievement that too many of us take for granted. Yet for the individual – and often their families – these moments represent milestones that can transform the quality of their life and mental wellbeing. Even travelling to and from sessions can be an achievement. These opportunities don’t simply enrich lives day to day, they help to shape thriving and more independent futures.

Prevention is a word we often hear in healthcare. We recognise that helping people stay healthy reduces pressure on our healthcare system. The same principle applies to social care. Supporting people to develop skills, confidence and independence early can reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and help prevent more complex challenges later in life.

Our social care system shouldn’t simply recognise this prevention, although it matters enormously. It should stand up and acknowledge that every person deserves opportunity. The opportunity to reach their individual potential, the opportunity to contribute and the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment.

As conversations continue about the future of social care, we hope the focus extends beyond responding to crisis. The charities delivering preventative, community-based support are not an optional extra, they are a vital part of the system. They create places where people are seen for their abilities rather than their disabilities and where inclusion is a reality rather than an aspiration. Social care should not be judged solely by how well it responds when people need help. It should also be judged by how well it helps people thrive before that help is ever needed. If we want a stronger, more sustainable social care system for the future, we must continue investing in the communities that make independence possible.

– Nikki Marley, The Fifth Trust CEO