The leader of Hounslow Council has backed calls for a simpler and fairer way of funding care for society's most vulnerable residents.

Councillor Peter Thompson spoke out as the Local Government Association (LGA) launched its "fair care" campaign.

He said: "The system of social care and support must be significantly simplified and adequately funded to meet the challenges of an ageing population and ensure that disabled and older people get the care they expect and deserve.

"Application processes are too complex, which deters people from accessing the help and support they are entitled to, and the benefits system is difficult to comprehend, preventing people from seeking advice about claiming them."

Coun Thompson added: "Councils like Hounslow are increasingly frustrated by inflexible funding arrangements, preventing us from working most effectively with our health partners.

"In short, the social care system needs work to make it fairer and simpler for those who rely upon it, and those who deliver it, and we would join with the LGA in encouraging the Government to review it."