* Union says action needed urgently to create world-class service

Commenting on the government's announcement today (Friday) that an independent commission on social care will begin in April headed up by Baroness Louise Casey, UNISON head of care Gavin Edwards said:

"Long-term neglect has left social care with a workforce crisis. The fragmented, profit-driven sector is unable to deliver for the hundreds of thousands of people who are in need. The sooner pay and standards are reformed, the better.

"This commission must work to a strict timeframe and focus on how to establish a national care service, not on whether to create one. Urgent work to deliver a fair pay agreement must also be delivered without delay. Both major reforms are vital to retain and recruit skilled staff, and to support those they look after.

"UNISON has led the campaign to create a national service that provides world-class care for everyone who needs it. The government must make it a priority to turn this vision into a reality."

Notes to editors:

- UNISON is the UK's largest union and the largest union in the social care sector, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

Media contacts:

Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

Sophie Goodchild M: 07767 325595 E: s.goodchild@unison.co.uk