Care update needed as more live longer

More public funds will have to be found to stop vulnerable older people from falling through the net and to support those who face high, unpredictable care costs.

Yesterday’s report from the Nuffield Trust said that without reform, spending on social care will have to rise from £14.6bn in 2010/11 to £23bn in 2025-26.

The health care think-tank says much of that money can be found from the £140bn of state funding already spent on older people.

However, if this is not possible, higher taxation of more wealthy older people could be needed.

The Trust also suggested the shortfall could be plugged by restricting some of the universal benefits, such as the winter fuel allowance, and free TV licences and bus passes.

The Nuffield Trust said a £1.5bn NHS under-spend could be used to protect and extend people’s eligibility for care, and also support more preventative work.

The balance of spending across health, social care and welfare payments should be reviewed, the report said.

The Government should shift some of the health budget towards social care, which together would create a larger pool of shared public money to pay for care services.

A cap on the cost of lifetime care to individuals is also being considered, which would be between £35,000 and £50,000.

Recent cuts to social care budgets have highlighted a mismatch between funds and demand, so more people on low incomes are no longer eligible for state support.

In addition, many people are forced to sell their homes to meet the costs of residential care.

Estimates suggest an additional £3.6bn of public spending on social care will be needed each year by 2025/26. Ministers are finalising plans on reform and expect to publish a White Paper and draft Bill next month.