Personal Care at Home Bill introduced to Parliament

The Bill that will help individuals with the highest care needs remain independent for longer, was introduced in Parliament today by Health Secretary Andy Burnham.

The Personal Care at Home Bill will help around 400,000 people with the highest care needs. It guarantees free personal care for 280,000 people - including those with serious dementia or Parkinson's disease - and, will also help around 130,000 people who need home care for the first time to regain their independence.

This intensive assistance or "re-ablement" will help people to regain their independence and prevent ill health. This means people will maintain their dignity and rebuild their confidence so that they can live at home for longer. Helping people to stay in their own homes could involve installing new equipment in people's homes.

The new proposals, which will cost £670 million, are the Government's first step towards setting up a new National Care Service - a simple, fair and affordable care system for everyone.

Secretary of State for Health Andy Burnham said: "This Bill is the first significant step towards making our system of care simpler, fairer and more affordable. It offers help now to the most vulnerable members of our society, most of whom have already paid out significant sums towards the costs of their care.

"People want to stay independent by living in their own homes for as long as possible. But we all face the prospect that one day we may need help with everyday tasks like washing and dressing.

"This shouldn't mean that an individual needs to move into residential care. Offering free personal care at home for those with the highest needs regardless of their means will help achieve this."