Social Care News

People in residential care could benefit from changes to care home charging

The Welsh Government has announced new proposals which could allow people to keep more of their money when in residential care.

In the government's five-year plan, called Taking Wales Forward, it has been proposed that the capital limit used for charging for residential social care be more than doubled, from £24,000 to £50,000. If passed by the assembly, the limit will move to £30,000 from April 10 this year – increasing in phases up to £50,000 thereafter.

Minister for Social Services and Public Health, Rebecca Evans, has encouraged individuals who may benefit from the change, or their families, to contact their local authority. She said: “People who need residential care and who have capital over a certain amount are required to use this to pay for the full cost of their stay.

“This government is committed to supporting older people, and those requiring care, which is why our five-year plan pledged to significantly increase this capital limit. This frees up more of people’s money for them to use as they wish.

“Instead, the local authority will be responsible for funding their care, only charging a contribution based on a person’s available income. I am therefore encouraging anybody who thinks they, or a family member, may benefit from the change to contact their local authority."

Read the full Taking Wales Forward proposals on the Welsh Government's website.