A National Care Service That Starts at Home
The Prime Minister has set out plans for a National Care Service in England. Here is what has been announced so far, and what it could mean for families arranging care at home.
Published: 28/10/2026
The Prime Minister has set out plans for a National Care Service in England.
On 29 September, Prime Minister Andy Burnham used his first Labour Party conference speech as leader to announce plans for a National Care Service in England. He described it as a landmark policy, comparing its importance to the creation of the NHS.
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What stood out for those of us in home care is where he said it would begin: in the home. The proposal is for a person-centred, high-quality service that starts with care at home, is free at the point of use, and is built on the idea that everyone contributes and everyone is covered. He also said that no care charges would be paid out of the basic state pension.
It is important to be clear about where things stand. This is a pledge, not yet a policy with set costs or a start date. Commentators have pointed out that the proposals would cover care itself rather than the residential costs of care homes, and that the early effects would take time to arrive. The details are still to come, and we will keep families updated as they emerge.
The Prime Minister also spoke about raising pay for social care workers and improving their training. For carers, that recognition matters. Stable, well-supported carers are what make care at home work, whatever happens in national policy.
What this means for you now
Care at home is available today, and you do not need to wait for reform to arrange it. If you are looking after a relative, the usual starting point is a needs assessment from your local council under the Care Act 2014. Whatever happens nationally, you can ask any provider how it recruits, trains and supports its carers. Those answers tell you a great deal about the care your family member will receive.
At Right at Home Enfield, we will be watching these plans closely. If you would like to talk through your options, call us on 0203 967 7500.
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