Scope responds to the Queen's Speech

The Queen outlined the programme of legislation set for this session of parliament. Richard Hawkes, Chief Executive of Scope, responded:

“The Government is sending mixed messages on social care and we are disappointed that it has not prioritised reform for this term of Parliament.

"A draft care and support bill is a step in the right direction but will offer little reassurance to the thousands of disabled people who rely on this support but are being denied access because there is no clear vision from Government on how this support will be funded.

“We are, however, pleased that the Government has recognised the need for greater support for children and families, particularly disabled families, and plans to develop a Children and Families Bill. This will be welcomed by families up and down the country.

“The parents and children we talk to tell us how they are struggling against a system which constantly fails to get them the support they need. They talk of being passed from agency to agency, the daily struggle for things other families take for granted and the immense strain this places on their family and relationships.

“By announcing the Children and Families Bill in the Queen’s speech, the Government has raised expectations of thousands of families and organisations for better co-ordinated support and more choice in services available. Crucially, they will be watching closely to see whether the Government will resolve the long-standing problems with joint planning, commissioning and delivery.

“We believe this is a chance to transform communities and make them supportive for all families. We are keen to see the detail of how the Government plans to develop better local services through a new local offer and support plan. Universal services, that provide information and support for all families, are often the key to keeping families together in difficult and challenging times.”