Why prevention matters

When prevention works well, it empowers people to continue living in the homes and places they love, surrounded by the people and things that give their lives meaning. It reduces the distress and disorientation that often comes with crises such as falls or emergency hospital admissions. It supports carers in their vital roles and helps preserve the family relationships that are so fundamental to wellbeing in later life.This human-centred approach to care aligns with what people themselves want – to remain independent, connected, and in control of their own lives for as long as possible.

However, delivering effective prevention at scale remains a challenge in an adult social care sector which is facing rising need, unprecedented financial pressures, and significant workforce constraints. The need for a system-wide shift towards prevention has never been more necessary - without decisive action to fully embed a more preventative approach, outcomes for individuals will continue to be compromised and the sustainability of the adult social care system will remain at risk.

You can find out more about the financial imperative and the policy mandate for prevention on the following pages.