Aug 19
Written by: Emma Carr, Head of Communications & Public Affairs, BTS
8/19/2009 10:56 AM
The Government has published its long-awaited consultation on the reform of the UK's social care system. The Green Paper, Shaping the Future of Care Together, outlines the Government's plans for the future of social care. The paper poses three main consultation questions:
- We (the Department of Health) want to build a National Care Service that is fair, simple and affordable. We (DH) think that in this new system there are six things that you should be able to expect:
- prevention services
- national assessment
- a joined-up service
- information and advice
- personalised care and support
- fair funding.
Is there anything missing from this approach?
How should this work?
- We (DH) think that, in order to make the National Care Service work, we will need services that are joined up, give you choice around what kind of care and support you get, and are high quality.
- Do you agree?
- What would this look like in practice?
- What are the barriers to making this happen?
- The Government is suggesting three ways in which the National Care Service could be funded in the future:
- Partnership – People will be supported by the Government for around a quarter to a third of the cost of their care and support, or more if they have a low income.
- Insurance – As well as providing a quarter to a third of the cost of people’s care and support, the Government would also make it easier for people to take out insurance to cover their remaining costs.
- Comprehensive – Everyone gets care free when they need it in return for paying a contribution into a state insurance scheme, if they can afford it, whether or not they need care and support.
Which of these options do you prefer, and why?
Should local government say how much money people get depending on the situation?
BTS and IMPRESS are calling on members for input into a response to these proposals and the questions posed. Please do leave your comments below or email them to Emma Carr at .
Shaping the Future of Care Together can be downloaded in full from the Department of Health's social care website.
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