Personal care budgets extended across England

13 Dec 07
Campaigners have welcomed government plans to radically transform care and support for elderly and disabled people by extending the system of personalised payments.

14 December 2007

Campaigners have welcomed government plans to radically transform care and support for elderly and disabled people by extending the system of personalised payments.

The new agreement between health and social care services, Putting People First, announced on December 10, means that millions of people in England will be given control over how their care money is spent.

Individuals will be means-tested to assess their health and personal needs and given their own budgets. Councils will then pay the money into their bank accounts or those of nominated relatives. Over the three years from April, an extra £520m will be distributed across all 150 councils in England to set up the system.

Health Secretary Alan Johnson said: 'This is a ground-breaking concordat because it is the first-ever attempt by central government to co-produce a major public service reform, in this case with local government, the NHS, people who use services and their carers.'

Local Government Association chair Sir Simon Milton described the plan as a 'landmark agreement' and said it 'should provide the foundation to give people independence, choice and dignity over their lives'. He added: 'Given the pressures arising from an ageing population and rising expectations, we are pleased the government has also recognised that change comes at a price.'

Paul Cann, director of policy and external relations at Help the Aged, said: 'This is a huge step forward which should bring significant benefits for older people. However, no one should underestimate the culture change required.'

Age Concern Director General Gordon Lishman also welcomed the changes, but warned: 'There is a long way yet to go.'

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