Retiring Unhurt

08/11/2011

Since 2004, the number of Britons aged over 85 has risen by two-thirds, and demand for care has outstripped supply. The UK’s elderly population will continue to expand. In response, the coalition government set up the Commission on Funding of Care & Support – headed by economist Andrew Dilnot – to undertake an independent review of the cost and funding of social care in England.

The Dilnot Report found that the current system is “unfair and unsustainable”, and called instead for a form of collaboration between the state and the individual.  The system should be national and portable, in order to ensure that those who move house are not disadvantaged. In addition, the Dilnot Report proposes that the value of the person’s home should only become a factor if they move into a residential care home.

At present, according to the Dilnot Commission, one in four people will spend little or nothing on social care. Half will spend more than £20,000, and one-quarter will spend more than £50,000. One in 10 will spend more than £100,000. Looking ahead, insurance companies are expected to step into the breach and offer solutions to help individuals and advisers to plan ahead. It is difficult for individuals to forecast the cost of their future needs, but it is important to consider how you are going to fund the cost of any care that falls below the recommended cap.

Paul Dixon
Chartered Financial Planner