Editorial comment: Rising fuel costs may hit care homes

We are all too aware of the effects of rising fuel costs on our household bills but there are more insidious results that could see some vulnerable adults unable to remain at home.

The UK Homecare Association warns that rising fuel bills could leave the elderly and debilitated without care at home. It reports that 64% of home care providers predict turning down care packages due to the costs and that it is also a factor in staff retention, with turnover now 25%.

If providers turn down care packages, some service users could be left without home care, raising the spectre of residential alternatives. With the emphasis on personal choice and people remaining at home, funding levels must be reviewed to ensure care levels are maintained.

• See story on fuel costs and contracts