There has been slow progress with social care reform. The government did promise at one point to radically rethink long term care for the elderly - this can now be viewed with some skepticism. Reforming the controversial funding system of social care is being looked at by labour but it has come to nothing, being deemed too expensive (even though they managed it in Scotland). Insiders say that the government has now finally accepted that the current system is unsustainable. The problem is that the population is ageing and disabled people and older people live longer lives, therefore help for their day to day lives is rocketing. This burden seems to be falling on families rather than the government due to restrictions from local authorities on who qualifies for help. With the cost of care being so high or so poor quite often spouses have to give up their jobs to care for their elderly loved ones.



One of the key things that needs to be addressed is the financial cut off that dictates anyone with assets worth ?21k or over or with a home get no help at all. This form of means testing needs to be reexamined. Other problems that need to be addressed include how carers are supported in particular the ones who wish to remain in work. And also the supply of respite care so they can have a break needs to be looked into. Another question is if everyone should be entitled to help, as happens in Scotland. Some form of 'progressive universalism' is preferred by ministers but God knows what they mean by that phrase - perhaps it means only universal entitlement to advice on where to find care or how to do it.

However, the financial contribution made by the state or the individual is the most contentious issue with most campaigners thinking the government should increase direct funding from the ?1.5 billion it currently stands at. I am sure there will be no quick decisions, but Alistair Darling, the chancellor, has made it clear that means testing is here to stay, however unpopular it may be.

Author: Blueford Ups

Distributed by: Redvers Downs, redvers@redversdowns.co.uk

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