Adults in need would get free personal care under Lib Dems

The Liberal Democrats Party have pledged that personal care will be free for those in need if they win the upcoming general election. 

All adults in England who need it, including the elderly and disabled, would be eligible for free day-to-day care.

Party leader Ed Davey “fixing the care crisis” would be placed “at the heart” of his party’s offer.

"As a carer for my disabled son, and after caring for my ill mother when I was young, care is deeply personal to me,” he said.

The plan would cover nursing care, help with mobility, hygiene, and medication. People in residential care would still have to contribute towards their accommodation.

Reversing tax cuts for banks

The Lib Dems said their plan would be funded entirely by reversing tax cuts for the big banks since 2016, and would cost £2.7bn a year by 2028-29. They say that with the reduced pressure on hospitals, the NHS could save up to £3bn a year.

Ed Davey said: 

“Far too often, family carers are being left to pick up the pieces because the care system simply isn’t there for them.

“Millions of people are going without the care they need, while thousands are stuck in hospital beds instead of being cared for in their own home or a care home.”

He added that the plan would help people live “independently and with dignity”.

'Encouraging and reassuring'

Chief Executive of Care England Professor Martin Green said it was “encouraging” and “reassuring” to see a party set out a plan for social care.

“There’s no shying away from the fact our sector needs substantial investment, and it’s reassuring the importance of the social care sector has been recognised by the Liberal Democrats,” he added.

'Comprehensive care reform needed'

Nuffield Trust fellow Camille Oung said that while the party is “right to put the desperate need to improve social care as a key part of their election proposals”, every party should prioritise comprehensive care reform based on “credible and sustainable funding rather than further tinkering at the edges”.

She added:

“Without adequate funding, stretched local authorities would struggle to deal with an increase in demand for personal care, as was seen in the early years of implementation in Scotland.”

Currently, only those with an income and assets under £23,250 can receive financial help with care costs. The Lib Dems’ personal care plan would be similar to the one that exists in Scotland.

The Conservative government said it would implement adult social care charging reforms from October 2023, but these were delayed by two years.

Who would be eligible?

The Lib Dems’ personal care plan would cover people who are:

• adults (over 18)
• based in England
• living at home
• elderly or disabled
• in need of day-to-day care 

What else is included in the plan?

 The party wants to introduce a carer’s minimum wage at a rate of £2 above the standard minimum wage. It also plans to set up a Royal College of Care Workers to provide members with support and professional opportunities.