Problems with the health service will persist until difficult decisions are taken around the transformation process, despite a one-off support package of £23 million for domiciliary care and the wider social care sector, Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has said.

The South Belfast MLA was speaking after the financial package was announced. It is designed to potentially attract more staff by offering improved pay rates.

“This support package will hopefully offer a morale boost to workers in the domiciliary and social care sectors,” said Ms Bradshaw.

“These staff are essential to easing pressures on our emergency departments, ensuring a smooth discharge from hospital and swiftly providing the right care packages to allow patients to return home.

“Whilst a one-off payment can ease the situation in the short-term, we need lasting solutions and recurrent funding. I look forward to seeing the Health Minister’s promised longer-term solutions and consultation on the future of adult social care.

“The problems with our health service will persist until these difficult decisions around transformation and integration of health and social care are taken.”