Require Welsh councils to prioritise quality, continuity, and safety when commissioning social care

Local authorities in Wales commission essential care services for older and disabled people through contracts with private and third-sector providers. Concerns have been raised that commissioning practices can prioritise cost reduction over continuity and quality of care.

This may contribute to rushed visits, high staff turnover, inconsistent support, and pressure on care workers through unrealistic scheduling and low pay. These issues affect vulnerable people, unpaid carers, and frontline staff across Wales.

Reports from the local families and communities highlighted ongoing pressures within the social care sector. Greater transparency and stronger national standards are needed to ensure councils commission care safely, fairly, and based on quality outcomes rather than cost alone.

We believe the Welsh Government should review how local authorities commission care services and introduce clearer national standards for ethical and sustainable commissioning.