Free Personal Care

Personal care describes the support a person receives for everyday activities. These include getting in and out of bed, getting to the toilet and having a bath or shower, getting dressed or preparing a meal.

Providing older people with the necessary care and support they need to maintain their independence, dignity and ability to enjoy later life is what we expect in a compassionate society. However, today, in England, receiving such support has become a game of chance: based on where you live and your ability to pay.

We don't believe this is right and it is time for change.

Independent Age’s long-term aspiration is to see a universal entitlement to free care. This should include free personal care as an essential first step to maintain the dignity of people in later life.

In the reports below, we have conducted extensive research to show why free personal care is an essential first step on the road to funding reform.