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Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 11 July 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 15 July 2025. It was answered by Stephen Kinnock (Labour) on Wednesday, 23 July 2025 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Social Services: Finance

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he plans to introduce a more generous means test for social care funding in line with the framework set out in the Care Act 2014.

Answer

The Government inherited a commitment to implement charging reforms, including a cap on care costs and an extended means test, in October 2025. Regrettably, funding for these reforms had not been guaranteed, preparations for full rollout were not on track, and thus it was impossible to deliver these reforms by October.

The means test thresholds for support with adult social care costs continue to be reviewed annually.

The Government remains committed to reforming the adult social care sector and we have launched an independent commission into adult social care as part of our critical first steps towards delivering a National Care Service. The Terms of Reference are sufficiently broad to enable Baroness Casey to independently consider how to build a social care system fit for the future, including considering the affordability of care costs if she sees fit.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
67257
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Finance Social services
Legislation
Care Act 2014
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk