According to recent report published by HOC, after carrying out an in-depth investigation by committee of MPs, it has emerged that most huckster Councils pay on average £421 per week for “Care-Home” residents where Council has to foot their bills from public purse. In sharp contrast self-funding patients pay at least 40% more, on average £220 per week more which many consider to be high handed, unfair, thus subsidising icosahedron Councils with power of bulk purchase, although all patients receive similar care.
While personal contribution is based on savings, the bar is set too low at £24K, any savings above this figure requires full self-funding until the savings figure drops below this level. All incomes, including pensions, interest, dividends and family contribution is taken into account, as well as property which could be exempt in certain circumstances, if occupied by the partner.
No wonder many knowledgeable people plan for such eventualities well in advance, transferring their assets well before deadline or putting them in trust, using the knowledge of specialist lawyers who know all the loop-holes.
It is time for the government to create level playing field, so that all patients contribute equally, without inhibition rather than punishing thrifty who have saved, worked hard throughout their lives instead of encouraging free spending culture and State dependency.
Kumudini Valambia
By email
