Politicians from all parties have
been urged to work together to find a way to overhaul the "failing" social care
system in England.
Cross-party talks about the care given to the elderly and disabled failed in
2010 but will start again this month.In an open letter, charities, faith-based groups and senior figures in the NHS and local government say the opportunity must not be missed.
A government statement said social care reform was an "urgent priority".
Care services minister Paul Burstow, a Lib Dem, said plans to change the system would be published in the spring.
But before that politicians are seeking to achieve cross-party consensus on the best way forward.
Mr Burstow, the Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, and shadow health secretary Andy Burnham are expected to hold the first in a series of meetings within the next few weeks.
