I had always thought that in UK the situation is better than in my own country, Romania.
I know that the corruption and crass-incompetence is the worst thing that could happen but I had no idea it is so endemic.

Trying to think laterally about it, the people are only as smart as their education allows them to be. They might have better ideas but revolutionizing the way everyone thinks might not be beneficial for his future career as a political person so he is avoiding "revolutionizing" anything.

It's sad but it's us, the voters, who must act and change the preconceived ideas.
I am honestly really sorry about the lack of services for the ones requiring them.

What I would do is try to find a political group or movement or even an NGO to help me. First of all you, being a UK citizen, you should be an expert in writing complaint letters. I still remember my Cambridge language classes and the various letters of complaint. You are well renowned for those letters. Just write and complain to the local council or the ones in power to do something. There might even be some EU regulation in this matter, you could get them fined probably. While you are still in the EU, regulations apply.
If they don't do it because it's reasonable, they might do it because of the fear of being fined. Get others to share your ideas and sign a petition. There are many ways to raise awareness about it, even news outlets would be interested in a compassionate story.

I hope I was able to help you and thanks for taking the time to share that!