Social Care Reform Bill – Update

Despite the political dramas last week, the Government’s controversial proposal for Social Care Reform passed the House of Commons by a small majority.

Further to our article of 13^th September 2021, which provided an overview of the proposed ‘Building Back Better’ reform, the new updated summary from the Government now highlights the fact that the proposed “care cap” of £86,000 does not apply to all of the fees one might be expected to pay for “care”. The summary indicates that a notional rate of £200 per week will be applied nationally for “daily living costs”, which represents rent, food and contribution to heating and bills. This would be paid by those receiving care, in addition to the care element of their fees. Only the care element will count towards the proposed “care cap”.

Further clarity is provided also in respect of the effective date of October 2023 as the summary now suggests that all those who are already receiving care prior to this date will also benefit from the new proposals. However, any fees paid prior to the effective date will not count towards the cap. Their contributions will simply be monitored from that point onwards.

This also means that anyone receiving care which they have arranged themselves in their own homes will also benefit from the new proposals. It will be a task for the Local Authorities to identify those individuals ahead of October 2023 so that their care contributions can be monitored effectively.

The updated Government summary can be found here:

Adult social care charging reform: further details – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

At this stage, it is too early to say what the end result may be for the proposed reform.  As the bill now moves forward to public consultation in the New Year, Tollers will be watching closely and will be providing further updates to ensure that our clients are kept fully up to date as the bill progresses.

If you have any questions regarding the Social Care Reform Bill and how it may impact you or your loved ones… Talk to Tollers on 01604 258558 and speak to our highly experienced Elderly and Vulnerable Client Law team who are on hand to guide you through.