Government must stop dithering over services for the elderly

12.57.35pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 30th Apr 2008

Quality of care for the elderly is a significant concern for most people, according to a poll by Age Concern. The survey reveals eight out of 10 people are "very concerned" about the care they will be given when they get old. Sue Doughty said; "This Government has presided over a shocking collapse in services for the elderly. The Government should stop dithering and start fundamental reform now.

Sue Doughty, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for Guildford, is very concerned by the findings released this week, which also show that despite the government's Dignity in Care campaign, 40% of people are not confident they will be treated with dignity or respect when they need assistance.

"The Liberal Democrat proposal for a personal care payment, based on need and not the ability to pay, would ensure a fair deal for all elderly people who need personal care and put an end to the criminal injustice of poor access to social care."

Liberal Democrat proposals would give all older people in need of care a universal care guarantee, which would cover the great majority of care they need. Individuals could then 'top up' their care package by making private contributions which would be matched by the state - pound for pound - until the maximum benchmark is reached. People on low incomes would have their top-up contributions paid by the state through the benefits system, so that they would still have all their care needs covered.

Related Link:

Age Concern.