Overview

The Personal Care at Home Act 2010 amended the Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc.) Act 2003 to remove the six-week limit on free personal care provided by local authorities to people living at home in England and Wales. This allows for the indefinite provision of free personal care, subject to eligibility criteria determined by local authorities.

Description

This Act primarily modifies Section 15 of the Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc.) Act 2003. The key change is the removal of the previous six-week time limit on free personal care services for individuals living at home. The Act empowers local authorities to provide free personal care for an unlimited period, although eligibility criteria can still be applied. The Act also enables the government to issue regulations defining eligibility and detailing the process for determining eligibility, which might include programs aimed at increasing independence. The legislation also ensures that such regulations are compatible with the existing legislation (e.g., the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and National Assistance Act 1948).

Government Spending

The Act is expected to increase government spending on personal care services for individuals at home. Precise figures were not included in the Act itself and would depend on the decisions made by local authorities regarding eligibility and the level of provision.

Groups Affected

• Elderly and disabled individuals in need of personal care: Potentially benefit from longer-term, free personal care at home.
• Local authorities: Assume responsibility for determining eligibility criteria, administering the extended free care program, and managing the increased costs.
• Care providers: May see an increase in demand for their services if eligibility is broadened.
• Taxpayers: Will indirectly fund the increased spending on personal care through taxation.

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