Extending free personal care to under 65s: feasibility study

Section 6 : Conclusion And Next Steps

The feasibility study has shown that extending Free Personal Care is an option which could have important benefits for many of those currently charged for these services and would ensure that charging arrangements for personal care apply equally regardless of age and condition. In addition, other people who may in the past have declined support due to concerns about the cost would be able to receive that care, if eligible. This would assist many people dealing with conditions such as dementia, motor neurone disease ( MND) and Parkinson’s.

The feasibility study has established the income currently collected by Local Authorities from charges for personal care for people under 65, and modelling of the possible costs of responding to unmet need by providing additional services is being undertaken.

The study found that there is potential for interaction between any extension of Free Personal Care and the social security system which also would need to be considered and addressed.

Scottish Ministers will consider the outcome of the feasibility study and advise on their approach in due course.