Social Care Secretary back in Post

Steve Barclay has returned to the post of health and social care secretary, which he held for just two months over the summer, following Thérèse Coffey’s even shorter stint in the role.

Also returning to the department, as the minister directly responsible for adult social care, is Helen Whately, who was previously care minister from 2020-21.

While Barclay will be focused on the significant pressures on health and social care as winter approaches –his appointment comes as the Government is considering a delay to its adult social care charging reforms.