Private care home investors a risk to public sector, regulator says
Summary
Private companies, including large US investors, are buying more care homes for older people in England. This shift raises concerns about higher costs and lower care quality, while smaller care providers are struggling or closing. The Care Quality Commission says clearer planning and better funding are needed to improve social care services.Key Facts
- The five largest companies now own about one in seven care homes in England, a 26% market increase in two years.
- Many care homes are owned by US property investors.
- There are worries this trend could lead to higher prices and worse care quality.
- Home care services for people living at home have become fragmented, with many very small providers.
- Small care homes, especially those combining care and nursing, have dropped by a quarter in 14 years.
- Funding for care is unstable, with many users either paying themselves or relying on limited state help.
- Some councils find it harder to buy care services for people depending on public funding.
- Experts call for better government funding, clearer plans, and support for smaller care providers.
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