This policy statement promotes a human rights and equality-based framework for care, and sets out the actions that must be taken by the State to translate European and international standards into public policy commitments and measures. Our positions and recommendations require a fundamental change in how the State views and values care across the life-cycle. The statement initially highlights the general principles that must underpin the provision and receipt of care at every stage of life, and then focuses on the distinct areas of early childhood education and care and adult social care and community support. In drafting this statement, we have drawn on the expertise and on-the-ground insights of a wide range of rights-holders and civil society actors, including through engagement as part of our 2022 conference ‘Achieving Gender Equality At Work: Care Policy and Practice’, Care About Equality campaign, Civil Society Forum on the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights, and Disability Advisory Committee and stakeholder meetings. These inputs are of significant value and are referenced throughout.
Download accessible word version of Policy Statement on Care