High Peak MP: We can all show VE Day spirit to get through Covid-19 crisis

Captain Tom Moore’s inspiring efforts prove the enduring value of an individual, no matter their age.

When people put so much into society over the course of their life, it is only right that society should give them something back in return when they can no longer care for themselves.

During this national crisis, we have seen carers continuing to go above and beyond, helping people with their needs and bringing friendship and consolation to so many.

And after this crisis is over, the social care system will still need help and I have seen the consequences of this right here in High Peak.

The proposed closure of Goyt Valley House care home in New Mills has rightly sparked outcry from the community.

I have been campaigning hard to keep Goyt Valley House open, meeting with staff, residents and relatives and, to the surprise of many of my critics, attending the protest march in support of the care home and publicly criticising the Conservative-led council.

I also invited the care home minister to come and visit the home, but unfortunately, the current lockdown made that impossible.

During the election campaign, I often said that social care is one of the biggest challenges facing us as a country.

The current crisis has only underlined this fact.

We desperately need a long-term, sustainable and fair way to fund social care.

We also need to do more to recognise the amazing work done by care workers, who deserve to be paid so much more.

People are living longer, which is a very good thing.

But it creates new challenges that we have to adapt to and failure to act will store up huge problems for the future.

I’m an independent-minded moderate, which means I will not be ideological or partisan in my approach to the reform and improvement of social care.

The only thing that matters is what works, and I am determined to work with the Government and colleagues from other parties to achieve a consensus on this vital issue.

Let’s work together to support our care homes.​​​​​​​

Robert Largan is MP for High Peak.