The New Care Act Legislation
English Care System Faces Biggest Changes in 60 Years
The Care Act released in 2014 included the rights for those receiving care and for those who provide it for relatives or friends. The Public Bodies (Joint Working) Act has been described as the most substantial reform north of the border for a generation.
The new Care Act Legislation will be enforced on Tuesday 21st April 2015 will apply to the care system for older people and younger adults with disabilities.
The four major changes include:
- Eligibility– Establishment of when someone should be entitled to help (retraction from Councils setting up their own criteria)
- Loan Duty– Councils have a duty to offer loan schemes for those who need to pay for residential care but cannot afford it. The loan is repaid to the council from their estate after death.
- Right to Assessment– Providing assessment and support for the carers now as well as the people they care for. If a person is providing “substantial care on a regular basis” they will qualify for an assessment.
- Access to Information– Those paying for care themselves will be entitled to go to councils to seek advice and information regarding the care system.
The changes set out on Tuesday will mark the biggest milestone in case services in many decades. Many changes are still to be set in the next update in 2016 but the proposals above are seen as a big step forward for care provision and care providers.
What Does This Mean for Our Clients?
As the government continue to provide more financial support and support services for people involved with care, we expect the level of equipment provision and understanding of equipment capabilities will rise alongside.
As experts in solutions for transfer and care, we believe that both the user and carer deserve to have as many options for support in caring environments including hoisting, changing, showering and bathing. We are pleased to learn that the Government is taking strides forward in accepting the level of support that is needed by the carer as well as the user as it means the wellbeing of all parties involved is considered.
To learn more about whats changed in the new Care Act Legislation click here.