Responding to the news, Jan Tregelles, Chief Executive of Mencap, said:
Mencap has long-called for a national system of eligibility to end the postcode lottery which dictates who can and can’t get social care. But by setting the eligibility threshold for care so high, the Government shuts out thousands of people with a learning disability from getting the support they desperately need. Many people who need help with the day-to-day tasks like managing money, medication and being supported to be part of their community may no longer get it. We know the huge difference support can make to people’s lives, and how devastating the consequences when they don’t get it – needs can quickly escalate, pushing people and families to crisis point.
Hand in hand with ensuring people with a learning disability who need support can get it, it is vital there is more funding in the care system. The Care Act is a real opportunity to bring in much needed change to the care system with an important focus on wellbeing and prevention. This genuine opportunity for people to get the support they need to lead full lives in their communities must not be wasted.
For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact the Mencap press office on 020 7696 5414 or media@mencap.org.uk.