What changes are planned for social care?published at 13:42 Greenwich Mean Time 1 December 2021
The government announced its plans for England in September, proposing:
- People will no longer pay more than £86,000 towards their care during their lifetime, starting in October 2023
- The £86,000 limit, or cap, will only cover personal care, such as help washing or dressing. It would not cover living costs such as food, energy bills or accommodation
- After people reach the £86,000 cap, personal care will be paid for by local authorities
- People with assets under £20,000 won't have to contribute to care costs (compared with £14,250 now). However, they might have to contribute from their income. Assets are things you own - like a house or savings
- Those with between £20,000 and £100,000 can get help towards costs from their local council. This is means-tested - so it depends on things like income and property