Social care: Four ways to reform the system
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is seeking to reform England's social care system, which is currently underfunded and relies heavily on means-tested support. The BBC examines four potential reform models, including cost-capping proposals previously suggested by economist Andrew Dilnot.
Why it matters
Social care reform is a critical domestic policy issue in the UK, directly impacting the financial security of the aging population and those with disabilities.
By Ben Chu Policy and analysis correspondent, BBC Verify Published 27 July 2026 Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he would not want to leave office without bringing in "substantial change" to the social care system in England which provides support for older people and working-age adults with disabilities.
The social care system - which is mostly provided by companies rather than directly by the state - is widely perceived as underfunded and unfair.
It is estimated by Age UK there are two million older people in England now living with some unmet need for social care.
At the moment funding for somebody getting care in their own home is means tested - so they may qualify for local council funding based on their income and savings. The value of their home is not taken into account.
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