Providers Unite Press Release: NICS defeat 19th March 2025

Nadra Ahmed CBE, Exec Co Chair of the National Care Association on behalf of Providers Unite, commented:

“Today, we bear witness to a devastating blow that seals the fate of thousands of care providers across our nation. In a callous act of indifference, the government has dismantled the core principles and ethos of the Care Act 2014, abandoning millions who depend on vital support. This is indeed a dark day for community based care not only a ruthless assault on those we protect and employ, but on the very fabric of our democracy.”

"This is intolerable, and as a result, we will take further action to challenge this devastating defeat for the millions who depend on us for vital support. All previous attempts to remain diplomatic and constructive will be set aside. We will mobilise the more than 4,000 organisations already part of Providers Unite to confront the defeat of the NICs amendments, urging them to lobby their political representatives and apply significant pressure on local authorities. We call on thousands more care and support providers to join us in ensuring that the most marginalised members of our communities are protected from this lack of compassion by our elected representatives."

On March 19, the House of Commons considered Lords Amendments to the National Insurance Contributions (Secondary Class 1 Contributions) Bill (Bill Details), marking a critical moment for organisations providing essential health, care, and support services across the UK.

During a two-hour debate, the Exchequer Secretary James Murray MP (Labour, Ealing North) repeatedly dismissed concerns about the bill’s impact. The tabled amendments, proposed by the Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords sought to reduce National Insurance contributions to 13.8% for specified employers, including care providers, hospices, and charities with turnovers under £1 million.

Despite the clear need for relief, the House of Commons voted to dismiss the amendments by 307 to 182, delivering a crushing setback to the social care sector.

Who Will Be Affected?

💚 Social care and support providers

💚 Health providers—including GPs, dentists, and pharmacists

💚 Hospices and special education needs transport services

💚 Health and care charities

These frontline organisations are the backbone of our health and care system—working tirelessly to support those who need it most.