This is despite eight in 10 councils forecasting they will have to cut spending on community services such as parks, libraries and leisure in a bid to try to protect care services, according to a survey of councillors published by the Local Government Association (LGA) last week.

The survey comes a decade after the Government introduced the Care Act - landmark legislation designed to improve access to care and support by pulling together a patchwork of laws on adult social care built up since 1948.

Ahead of a General Election later this year, the LGA said all parties need to put the national interest first and end the politicisation of adult social care.

Social care spokesperson for the LGA, David Fothergill, said: ‘The Care Act was a beacon of hope for those needing care and support but this hope has faded. A decade on, people are still facing long waiting times for assessments and support, and not getting the full care and support they need.

‘We are at a critical point for people who draw on care, councils and the sector. Councils are doing all they can to ensure they meet their duties under the Care Act - including cutting spending on other neighbourhood services - but many still fear they will not be able to over the coming years.

‘This simply isn't good enough. Adult social care needs urgent attention. This must be top of the in-tray for any incoming government.'