GSD condemns Government failures in Home Support and Domiciliary Care Services

The GSD is seriously concerned about the continued mismanagement of Home Support and Domiciliary Care services, which are failing both service users and employees.

The current situation stands in stark contrast to the assurances given by Minister for Care, Gemma Arias Vasquez, in February 2024. At the time, she described a survey conducted by the Care Agency and previous subcontracted companies which also allowed clients to express their views and provide feedback on services received, stating:

Yet, fast-forward to the period between October and December 2024, an average of 132 complaints per month were recorded, highlighting far more serious failings than those described in February 2024. These complaints include issues in relation to missed care sessions, late arrivals, shortened visits, and a lack of continuity in care—issues that directly impact the well-being of service users.

This stark contrast suggests that the Minister was either seeking to paint a picture of service provision which was not reflective of the reality being experienced by users on the ground or that the Government’s failure to properly manage and oversee the transition to a new service provider has led to a deterioration in the service.

Shadow Minister for Care, Mrs Atrish Sanchez notes, “Promises of efficiency and continuity have not materialised. At the end of the day, what I care about is that vulnerable individuals who rely on these services are suffering the consequences, while employees struggle under what far too many describe as a broken and dysfunctional system.”

The public deserves better. The Government must take responsibility for this ongoing disruption, ensure taxpayer money is spent wisely, and deliver the high-quality care service users need.

The GSD will continue to demand transparency, accountability, and urgent action to fix these failings so that those who need care the most receive the standard of service they deserve.