Government plans to ‘backtrack’ on ‘death tax’

It has been suggested that the government will propose working towards a new settlement on care in the next parliament for fear of a backlash ahead of the election campaign. There is also suggestion of a short-term partial solution for people with the most severe needs.

'On the day that the US voted through compulsory insurance to cover the costs of healthcare it will be very disappointing if the government bottles it on care. This is an issue facing millions of families who are paying a 'dementia tax' of tens of thousands of pounds because social care is means tested. On behalf of those who are currently being forced to pay for inadequate care we urge the government and all parties to look beyond the current election and offer the electorate a real choice.

'No political party has yet given an adequate explanation as to how to sort out the funding system which will meet the needs of all people with dementia. Now is the time for our political parties to come up with bold solutions for the future of our care system.'

 

Andrew Chidgey
Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

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Notes to editors

• News story available from the Guardian. 
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk 
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk