Government Decides Not to Scrap Disability Living Allowance
Author: WRVS
Published: 2009/10/27
Contents: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Related Publications
Synopsis: WRVS supports governments decision not to scrap the disability living allowance.
Introduction
WRVS also supports government's decision not to scrap the disability living allowance. This supports the wellbeing of 1.6 million pensioners who currently receive it.Main Content
WRVS has welcomed Secretary of State for Health, Andy Burnham's announcement on 22 October to bring forward legislation to prevent age discrimination in the NHS. WRVS believes every person deserves the same degree of care and support and that shouldn't stop when you hit 65.
WRVS also supports government's decision not to scrap the disability living allowance. This supports the wellbeing of 1.6 million pensioners who currently receive it. This decision does raise questions on how future social care will be funded. Plans announced at the Labor Party Conference in September stated that individuals will have to pay for some of their care, with full personal care provided to those people most in need free of charge. (See WRVS news, 30 September).
"We welcome the decision to bring forward legislation to prevent age discrimination within the NHS. Every individual, no matter what their age, has the right to a decent level of care and support. Negative perceptions of old age are widespread; this legislation will help change attitudes to aging and older people." claimed WRVS chief executive, Lynne Berry. "The future of social care is now in the balance; the proposed National Care Service will cost more but is vital to ensure we all receive the benefits in the long run."
WRVS launched its election challenge at the Party conferences this month, calling on the next government to commit to four pledges including reforming social care to make Britain a great place to grow old.