Social care 'underfunded'
Elderly are likely to seek help from family and friends, survey finds
Also In The News
|
The Football Association (FA) has decided not take any action against  |
Friday, 25, Jan 2008 10:48
Two-thirds of people are failing to save for the possibility they may need social care when they are elderly, a new survey has revealed today.
The same amount also say they are likely to seek help from family or friends rather than choosing local authority support or paying for private service.
The charities Counsel and Care, Help the Aged and Carers UK jointly released the survey's findings to coincide with the launch of their campaign, Right care, right deal, to create a new settlement for social care in England.
They say a system is needed which is better funded through a clear, simple and sustainable deal entered into by the state, community, family and individuals.
Paul Cann, director of policy at Help the Aged, said the survey's findings should "act as an urgent alarm call".
"Reform to the creaking social care system is now vital," he added.
"Social care should be about supporting older people to live a better life, expanding their opportunities, not just managing their needs.
"The current system is failing and so must be transformed into one that is personalised, easy to understand and accessible - with a fair and sustainable funding settlement."
The survey also found that over half of people want a more personalised care system, where cash is given directly to them to pay for their care as they choose.
Nearly half of those surveyed said information about social care is confusing.
"Older people, their families and carers are baffled by the system and confused about what they are entitled to," commented Counsel and Care chief executive Stephen Burke.
"We need a simpler, fairer, transparent, consistent and flexible care system that is fit for the future."
The government is due to outline a new social care strategy later this year.