Penny on tax is a small price to pay for social care we can treasure

BRITONS are prepared to pay more tax to end the crisis in social care and halt a national disgrace. Our exclusive polling shows two thirds of us aged over 55 support a one penny increase in income tax to ensure loved ones are cared for with dignity.

The horrors of the coronavirus pandemic mean action can be put off no longer. Nearly 15,000 people in UK care homes have died from suspected or confirmed Covid-19, according to figures leading up to May 22.

Many people in residential care are automatically at high risk from Covid-19 because of their age and underlying health conditions.

So it is essential they receive the best protection possible and are cared for with love at this time of danger.

The crisis has revealed the courage of care workers who put their own safety at risk to look after those who depend on them.

Such vital staff deserve pay that recognises their critical responsibility and they should benefit from the highest standards of training.

The country is ready to invest in a social care system in which we can take pride.As our polling demonstrates, the Government does not have to worry about how to persuade us to put in the cash – we stand ready to support a scheme that means people will no longer have to sell off their homes in a bid to secure decent care when they need it most.

Captain Sir Thomas Moore inspired the entire nation when he raised nearly £33million with his sponsored walk in his garden. There are legions of people in care homes who share his patriotism and have displayed similar commitment to their families, their jobs and their communities throughout the decades of their lives.

A civilised society will ensure they live in comfort and security. It is horrendous that some have suffered neglect and even abuse.

We are encouraged that Health Secretary Matt Hancock yesterday stated: “I am determined to push forward the social care reforms that I know so many readers of the Daily Express are interested in.”

He acknowledged reforms have been “pushed to the side for too long” and that “injustices” around funding have burned away. Mr Hancock hopes proposals for change can be set out this year but he is in no doubt the transformation of the system must be completed by the next election.

This change must ensure Britain leads the world in the way it treasures all of its citizens who are in need of care. That is why the Daily Express agrees with a penny on tax, because this issue has to be resolved now... once and for all.