'Lessons must be learnt' as ONS reveal tragic death toll among care staff

Commenting on the latest ONS figures on Covid-19 deaths by occupation, Suzie Bailey, Director of Leadership and Organisational Development at The King’s Fund, said:

‘It is a tragedy that deaths from Covid-19 have been so disproportionately high among social care staff. Hardworking care staff have been on the front line in this crisis, but have been let down by government promises of support that have not been delivered. It is increasingly clear that social care has been neglected during the pandemic, with disastrous consequences.

‘Lessons must be learnt. The virus still poses a very real threat and care workers need to be protected and prioritised for access to testing and PPE. Social care must never again be treated as an afterthought to the NHS, but as an equal partner in an interdependent system.’

Notes to editors

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The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible health and care is available to all.