Cumbria Chamber of Commerce raises concerns for employers who may be expected to up National Insurance contributions to improve the country’s social care system.
An announcement is expected this week with plans to overhaul England’s social care system. The Chamber recognises that while it is widely accepted that change is needed within the system, there are varying views on how this should be funded.
The Chamber is concerned that once again businesses will be put in a difficult position with the potential 1.25 per cent increase in National Insurance at an already fraught time for businesses.
Commenting ahead of the expected announcement, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce Managing Director Suzanne Caldwell (pictured) said: “While it’s clear that significant action is needed to “fix” our social care system, how do we best fund it? It’s certainly not an easy one and every potential answer will be unpalatable to some.
“But whatever anyone’s political views there has to be a concern about the proposal to do this through National Insurance at the current time, increasing the burden on employers at a time when so many are still emerging from the challenges of the pandemic and facing the cost of paying back Covid loans and hikes in costs of transport, raw materials and wages.”
An aging population with increasing demand, fewer people receiving the care they need and cuts to local authority spending on social care are the current problems the sector is facing.
If businesses wish to highlight any concerns, or need some advice and support then they can get in touch with Cumbria Chamber of Commerce by emailing info@cumbriachamber.co.uk.
