Big Cuts and Government's Plans for Big Society

David Cameron announced his government’s plans for the Big Society on the BBC yesterday. The Big Society aims to engage and empower communities by involving people in the running and controlling of their local services.

However questions are being raised as to whether Big Society will be able to meet its desired aims while massive cuts are being made in public spending.

In response to the initiative announced by Mr Cameron, our Chief Executive Carole Cochrane said:

“Unlike the NHS, social care isn’t free at the point of need which means that there are a lot of charities supporting disabled, seriously ill people and their carers to help them get the care they need.

"Our concern is that because social services account for 40% of the budgets that local authorities have control over, they are most likely to be a prime target for cuts that local authorities have to make.

“More worryingly, the research that we have gathered shows that cutting support to carers will very quickly cost more than is saved. Training, emotional counselling and breaks are all vital to help carers manage their often 24/7 caring roles. Councils could not cope without carers so they need to be investing in them, not abandoning them.”

NCVO on the Big Society

Published: 20 July 2010