‘Leave our NHS alone’ is a common cry from campaigners. But, local government could soon be forced into making a similar plea to protect the future of social care.

Up until now, social care has only tended to register on the public’s consciousness at times of scandal.

The debates about the Care Bill and integration have largely been held by the professionals and politicians but increased demand caused by an ageing population coupled with a further funding squeeze could soon change that.

At the moment, the suggestion that social care would be better delivered by the NHS is only a whisper said by few publicly, but these voices may grow louder if, as predicted, local government continues to be pummelled while health budgets are protected.