Properly funded and sufficiently staffed public services are essential if the government is to deliver its vision for Britain, says UNISON today (Thursday), responding to Keir Starmer’s speech.
UNISON assistant general secretary Jon Richards said: “Repairing the damage wreaked by years of Tory mismanagement is a tough job that will take a while. The government has identified the challenges the country faces, now it’s time get to grips with them.
“It’s only possible to grow the economy, cut waiting times, improve opportunities for schoolchildren, build more houses and make communities safer with properly funded and sufficiently staffed public services.
“The NHS can’t be fixed until the crisis in social care is resolved. The promised national care service would raise standards, improve pay for staff and meet the needs of those needing help.
“Local authorities were clobbered by the previous government, leaving many councils in a perilous state. They need swift and decisive action to stabilise their finances and build much-needed housing.
“Catastrophic cuts to the police service saw a rise in recorded crime, the demise of neighbourhood policing and the near destruction of the probation service. As a result, justice is not being served, nor is it being seen to be delivered. Extra staff and funding are urgently required to rebuild public trust.
“School support staff are vital to the smooth running of schools and the experiences of pupils. Yet, with thousands thinking of leaving the profession, their working environment must better reflect the invaluable assistance they provide.
“If the government is to realise its ambitious agenda, it must work with the people who will be tasked with rebuilding the country.”
