Four options for tackling social care
The UK government is exploring four potential reform options for the social care system to address underfunding and accessibility issues. Previous attempts at reform have stalled due to disagreements over funding mechanisms and the impact on personal assets.
Why it matters
Social care reform is a critical policy challenge for aging populations, directly impacting the financial security of millions of citizens.
By Ben Chu Policy and analysis correspondent, BBC Verify Published 45 minutes ago Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he would not want to leave office without bringing in "substantial change" to the social care system in England which provides support for older people and working-age adults with disabilities.
The social care system - which is mostly provided by companies rather than directly by the state - is widely perceived as underfunded and unfair.
It is estimated by Age UK there are two million older people in England now living with some unmet need for social care.
At the moment funding for somebody getting care in their own home is means tested - so they may qualify for local council funding based on their income and savings. The value of their home is not taken into account.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in