90% expect state to pick up their care tab

The data from the care provider, revealed that 90 per cent of 1200 consumers who were surveyed, believed state support only kicks in once they run out of money, highlighting ignorance and misunderstanding about the care sector.

The survey found that 87 per cent have made no provision for these costs despite the average cost of a care home in the UK hitting £25,953 in 2011.

It also found that 97 per cent of over 65s, and 92 per cent of those aged 45 to 55 were most likely to believe that they need to self-fund their care compared with 85 per cent of those aged 24 and under.

The survey said that 22 per cent believed their parents would need to fund their own care, 28 per cent said it would be a combination of state and personal funding, while only 8 per cent believed the council would pay.

Jonathan Bruce, managing director of Prestige Nursing, warned that the lack of understanding among older age groups is cause for concern as they may put off seeking the help they need as they worry about the financial implications.

Mr Bruce said: “Almost nine out of 10 people believe that they will need to pay for their own care until they cannot afford to, which is a myth. This really highlights the significant amount of ignorance and misunderstanding that surrounds the social care sector. Each council appears to have slightly different rules and it is very difficult to find clear information. With the Dilnot Commission recently proposing some far reaching changes, if the government wants to ‘fix’ the care system, it needs to ensure that they inform and educate people as part of this.”

The Dilnot Commission on Funding of Care and Support put forward proposals aimed at overhaul the “creaking system” that is no longer fit for purpose.

The 80-page Fairer Care Funding report outlined a shared responsibility model, whereby the state and the individual shoulder the burden of care together.

Mr Dilnot has recommended that individuals with assets of more than £100,000 pay for their care, whether that be in-home or in nursing home, up to £35,000, at which point the state will provide funding. Those below the £100,000 threshold will be eligible for means-tested benefits.

Brian Tabor, director for Hertfordshire-based CareMatters, said: “People often make guesses from what they read and hear. It is down to a postcode lottery, depending on the local authority support.”