Experts to warn government policies are pulling families ‘in different directions' as MPs debate the future of adult social care in England.

The House of Commons' public accounts committee is due to meet today to discuss adult care.

Among those due to give evidence is the president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, Sandie Keene, and the director of policy and public affairs at Carers UK, Emily Holzhausen.

Speaking before the committee meeting, Ms Holzhausen told The MJ the combination of cuts to public services and an ageing population are putting ‘additional pressures on families'.

‘Government policy is pulling in different directions,' said Ms Holzhausen. ‘On the one hand, you have the Department for Work and Pensions saying we have to work for longer, but on the other hand more people are being put under pressure as they juggle work and care. You can't do both.

‘About two million people have given up work in order to care.

‘Local authorities have an enormously difficult task ahead with shrinking budgets and an ageing population. They need to be able to square the circle.  They need to be creative, but it is becoming  increasingly difficult for local commissioners.'