People in Bradford can have their say on the quality of care provision in the district ahead of far-reaching reforms to the social care system.

Bradford East MP David Ward has launched a social care survey, which will be used to inform debate on the Government’s Draft Care and Support Bill.

Plans announced last month would see the introduction of a minimum legal entitlement to social care across the whole country.

There would also be more rights to support for carers and the introduction of a deferred payments system, to ensure no one is forced to sell their home to pay for care.

But questions about the future funding of social care remain unresolved.

Mr Ward plans to survey thousands of people across Bradford on their experiences for a report, which will be presented to Care Services Minister Paul Burstow.

He said: “Social care is something that all of us will experience at some point in our lives, either through looking after a family member or being cared for ourselves.

“But care has not received the prominence it deserves in the national debate and many people aren’t even aware that social care isn’t free until they need it themselves.

“The white paper is an opportunity to change that. The Government are promising the biggest shake-up of social care for 60 years and I want to make sure that Bradford’s concerns are at the front of ministers’ minds as they decide the future of the UK’s social care system.

“This summer I will be surveying thousands of households across Bradford, talking to carers and people in care and consulting with care providers.

“I urge everyone to help me to shape the future of social care in this country by filling out the survey that comes through their letterbox or on my website davidward.org.uk.”