Care funding commission sets out criteria for reform

The future long-term care funding system must be easy for the public to understand, the commission charged with reforming it has said as it set out its criteria for change today.

The public remained confused about the care funding system, with many people mistakenly believing it was free at the point of use, said the Commission on the Funding and Care and Support.

“This means people often don’t plan or prepare for the future costs they may face,” the commission added. “We also understand that those using care and support services, and their friends, families and carers, can sometimes find the system complicated to understand and navigate. It is vital that any new funding system is as clear, and as accessible, as possible.”

Ease of use and understanding was one of five criteria for reform set out by the commission today. The other four build on the terms of reference it was set by government: that any future system should provide value for money, fairness for individuals, carers and wider society and an affordable choice for users and carers, and should also be financially sustainable and able to respond to future demographic or economic change.

The commission was set up after the election to advise on how care and support should be funded in future. Its final recommendations are due by next July and will be followed by a white paper and legislation to reform the system next autumn.

Related articles

Care funding commission must not forget disabled