Page 7 - Engage Spring 2023

people are not charged for care from their assets, though are still liable to contribute from their income, will stay at £14,250. Both limits have been at those levels since 2010-11, dragging many more people into paying for care than would have been
the case had the limits risen in line with inflation.
The current system of social care
funding is widely acknowledged as being unsustainable. The Government has long faced calls to overhaul the care system. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has delayed
plans to introduce a cap on how much an individual has to spend on personal costs over their lifetime. The capital limits had been due to rise to £100,000 in October 2023 under the government’s proposed adult social care charging reforms. However, last November the government announced a two-year delay to the reforms, until 2025.
This means that even more people will have to rely on their own savings and on the goodwill of family, loved ones and neighbours. Many more people will be going without the necessary funded care
Unpaid carers are
doing their best
to keep their loved ones safe.
The pressures in social care are affecting the lives of thousands of unpaid carers and the lives of their loved ones.
or having less of it than would have been the case had thresholds gone up in line with inflation.
It is clear that people will need to think carefully about saving for their own care. It is certain that personal funding for social care will make up the vast majority of how someone pays for the care they need. People need to think carefully about saving for social care at the same time they save for their retirement.
Age UK Northamptonshire has seen a big increase in calls for advice on navigating the care system. We are finding that many more people feel isolated and increasing numbers have no family able to help them. They are not sure where to go and they turn to us. We hope that the Chancellor will use the Spring Budget on 15th March to help the millions of older people who are waiting for good, reliable care and the support they need to live with dignity.
Chris Duff
Chief Executive
Age UK Northamptonshire
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