Archbishop calls for urgent action on social care

(Photo credit: Church of England)

The newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury called for urgent action to strengthen England’s social care system in her New Year’s address.

The former nurse, Dame Sarah Mullally, who will be the first woman to lead the Church of England, highlighted the growing pressures faced by families, carers and frontline professionals, warning that insufficient investment in community-based services is contributing to unnecessary suffering and strain across the NHS, reported the website Care Home Professional. https://www.carehomeprofessional.com/archbishop-calls-for-urgent-action/

She said: “We know that our hospitals are under increasing pressure, with social and palliative care services stretched, long waiting times and severe strain on overworked NHS staff.

“But this can be eased. Community support can help deal with the root causes of many admissions. Churches like Saint in Hackney hold regular lunches, understanding that for many of us, a place to go where food is provided and there are people to talk to can be as important as medical intervention for our physical and mental health.”

She added: “As I look to the new year, and my new role as Archbishop of Canterbury, I do so in this same spirit of service, promising to uphold and support those in need, from all walks of life.”

“In my calling now, I strive to carry the care and compassion that shaped my vocation as a nurse into everything that I do.”

“The role of the Church should be a healing presence in our nation, bringing people together at times of often intense division, caring deeply for those who need our help.”

The new archbishop has been outspoken on social care in recent interviews, suggesting this will be a priority during her leadership of the church.

Dame Sarah will become the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury at a ceremony in Canterbury Cathedral on January 28. She was chosen to succeed Justin Welby after he announced his resignation more than a year ago.