Social care has defeated successive governments because every proposed solution becomes an argument about who pays, who qualifies and what the state should provide. Yet Britain is hardly alone in facing an ageing population and rising care costs. Other countries have already tested different models. The leadership lesson is simple: when a problem has resisted you for years, stop assuming the answer must be invented from scratch.
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Look beyond your own system.
Compare how other countries define entitlement, fund care and share costs between individuals and the state. Fresh thinking often begins by looking outside your own organisation.
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Steal the best ideas.
Denmark, Germany, Japan and others all offer lessons on universal provision, social insurance and co-payments. Good leaders are not afraid to borrow proven ideas.
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Combine, don’t copy.
No single model will fit perfectly. The strongest solution may blend several approaches to create something appropriate for Britain rather than importing another country’s system wholesale.
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Make the rules understandable.
People need to know what they are entitled to, what they may have to pay and what happens if their needs increase. Complexity breeds mistrust.
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Decide, then improve.
Waiting for a perfect answer guarantees paralysis. Choose a workable model, measure it honestly and refine it as evidence emerges.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.
William Montgomery, our Founder and CEO, is available as a keynote speaker and event host. His experience as a speaker encompasses a wide number of audiences on a diverse array of subjects. He is also a volunteer for Speakers for Schools and Inspiring the Future.