PEOPLE IN RESIDENTIAL CARE TO KEEP MORE OF THEIR MONEY

Local AMs, David Rees and Jeremy Miles, have welcomed the Welsh Labour Government’s announcement that from next year people in Neath Port Talbot will be able to keep more of their money when in residential care.

The Welsh Labour Government’s five year plan, “Taking Wales Forward” has committed to more than doubling the capital limit used in charging for residential social care, from £24,000 to £50,000.

The Welsh Labour Government has announced that the new limit will be implemented in phases, starting with an increase to £30,000 from April next year.

The decision to phase implementation reflects feedback from local authorities and care home providers and is designed to ensure they have sufficient time to adapt to the changes. It also takes into account independent research commissioned by the Welsh Government to obtain up to date costings for implementing the change.

There are 7,764 people aged over 65 in residential placements in care homes in Wales (as at March 31st 2015). There are 7,385 people aged over 65 in nursing placements in care homes in Wales (as at March 31st 2015)

Neath’s Assembly Member, Jeremy Miles, said: “This is about fairness, Welsh Labour standing up for older people in Wales.

“People tell me that they are worried about the costs of care and the thought of having to use their life savings or selling their homes to pay for care when they get older. It is right that those who have played fair and paid in get a better deal, allowing them to pass on something to their families.”

David Rees, AM for Aberavon, added “Many people who face the challenges of moving into residential care also face the anxiety of the possible loss of hard earned savings and I am pleased that the Welsh Government has quickly introduced an increase in the amount of capital people can keep before charging for that care. Before the end of this Assembly, we will see this figure increase further, removing that anxiety for many.

“Whilst we encourage and see more people living independently for longer, we must ensure that those who need the support residential care provides do not have to fear such a move.”

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