New funding will help create a "resilient social care system", according to Watford's MP Dean Russell.

The government has announced a £600 million package to boost recruitment in the social care sector, with £54,681,221 of the budget allocated to Hertfordshire.

The funding package is designed to enhance recruitment and retention within the under-pressure sector.

Mr Russell said: "The £54,681,221 will help to support so many people in Hertfordshire.

“The package focuses on improving recruitment, sustaining a strong workforce, and ultimately ensuring a resilient social care system that aligns with future demands.”

The plan set out by the government is to ensure that measures are in place ready for a winter to protect and support the NHS.

Mr Russell added: "This step not only bolsters the social care sector but also contributes to a stronger care system that supports the NHS in upcoming winters, alleviating hospital admissions and reducing A&E waiting times."

He believes it will help build a stronger social care workforce, in area considered one of the most challenged parts of the healthcare system.

The funding builds on the Next Steps to Put People at the Heart of Care plan which was backed by an initial £250 million, as well as the National Institute for Health Care and Research launching a £10 million programme focusing on social care research.

Out of the £600 million, £570 million is being shared out to local authorities to help them tailor the funding to the needs of the area, with it going towards better pay for social care workers and helping reduce pressures on the health system by increasing the use of social care throughout the winter.

Minister for care, Helen Whately said: “Hundreds of thousands of older people, disabled people and their carers depend day in, day out on our social care workforce.

“Care workers deserve a brighter spotlight to recognise and support what they do. That’s why we’re reforming social care careers and backing our brilliant care workforce with millions in extra funding.”

The money is being rolled out over the next two years.