The UK has introduced a new law requiring the elderly to pay for their own care.
The UK government has introduced a new law that requires people aged 65 and over to pay for their own social care, following a Supreme Court ruling. The new legislation is part of the Care Act, which came into force on April 1st 2021. The law was first announced in January 2021, but it wasn’t until April that it became mandatory for all those over 65 to purchase what is known as an Enhanced Personal Care Plan (EPCP). This plan will cost an estimated £1,200 per year and covers all of the individual’s social care needs.
Those who do not purchase an EPCP will have their needs met by the state under what is known as a Basic Personal Care Plan (BPCP). This basic plan only covers basic personal care needs such as help with washing and dressing. Those who are unable to pay for either type of plan can apply for financial assistance from local authorities or social services departments.
