Gap between Expectation and Reality in Long Term Care Funding

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Published: 11 May 2007

Gap between Expectation and Reality in Long Term Care Funding

A new survey reveals that three times more people think a person’s need should determine how care services are funded than those who think it should be based on their income or assets (23%), as is currently the case in the UK.

The YouGov survey was commissioned by the King’s Fund, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Age Concern and Help the Aged who have formed a major partnership with 11 other health & care organisations to generate a national debate on the future of long-term care funding.

The partnership follows the 2006 funding solution recommendations from both the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and from the Wanless Review for the King’s Fund.

The partnership, called Caring Choices, aims to consult older people, carers, professionals, care providers and commissioners of care services on options for reforming the current system of paying for long-term care in old age.

The survey found that:

· while 58% of respondents think the state should have the most responsibility to assist with the cost of care

· almost half (44%) said they expect to have to rely upon their own personal savings

· over a third of respondents (38%) expect to rely on the NHS for financial support

· while 17% think they would receive financial support from their children

In fact, beyond what is expected of the state, families & friends are assumed to be the next main providers of practical care and financial support for older relatives. But respondents also assume that the NHS would be a significant source of practical care (47%), along with national and local government (42%).

Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, said:

“The gap between reality and expectation in social care is colossal. But there is hope.

People, of all ages, recognise that they must play a role in providing social care.

This coalition and the government must work together with providers, older people and carers to deliver a system that is fair, clear and sustainable.

That is a challenge we must confront.”

Julia Unwin, Director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation said:

“We need a new social care system that is clear, reliable and that will work for future generations.

Understanding the views of citizens and the sort of choices they are prepared to make for their old age is an important first step in this process.

Clearly understood entitlement is key to the future success of any new system.”

Mervyn Kohler, head of public affairs at Help the Aged, said:

“The case for shaking up our care services is incontrovertible but where there is controversy is how to pay for it

These findings show that the public expects to fund a reasonable amount from their personal assets, but with the state funding a greater share.

It also shows that care services should be available should be available on the basis of need, not simply a person’s ability to stump up the cash for them.”

Niall Dickson, Chief Executive of the King’s Fund, said:

“It is clear that the current long-term care system is complex, unfair and unsustainable for the future.

It not only penalises people with moderate savings, but it also discourages hundreds of thousands from receiving the support they need.

While the state cannot provide everything, these findings show that the public is prepared to contribute to the costs of their care.

What we need now is a debate about roles, responsibilities and risks – and the trade-offs we are prepared to make as individuals and as a society to ensure we all get the care we need and deserve.”

The Caring Choices partnership is hosting seven regional debates across the UK to address the current failings of the care system and to look at potential solutions.

The first debate was attended by over 100 older people, carers and professionals.

To join the debate, please visit www.caringchoices.org.uk.

The BBC programme - You and Yours - broadcast a special panel discussion on the future of social care, which took place at the first Caring Choices debate, held in Manchester on 26th April. Click HERE to hear the programme.

The Caring Choices events taking place during 2007 will be at following dates and locations:

· Fri 25 May in Birmingham

· Fri 22 June in Bristol

· Wed 4 July in Edinburgh

· Thurs 13 September in Leeds

· Tue 23 October in Taunton

· Wed 14 November in London

These events are run on an invite only basis. Those who work in health and social care and would like to attend, should contact Jo O’Rourke, event organiser, tel. 01273 326 165.

Further information

King’s Fund

Joseph Rowntree Foundation

Age Concern

Help the Aged

Caring Choices