Rochelle's Story

Rochelle, 34, from Manchester Central wanted to work in social care, helping vulnerable people in one of England's most deprived constituencies. But HM Treasury and the Department of Health and Social Care have capped local authority grants, forcing councils to set care home fees below the actual cost of delivering care. This leaves providers unable to offer competitive wages, even when trained carers are available and care homes have vacant positions. Rochelle's story reveals how Westminster's political choices about spending limits block willing workers from reaching people who desperately need support. The carers exist, the need exists, but the government refuses to fund the connection. Disclosure: This episode discusses government funding decisions and their impact on public services.