The Prime Minister aims to introduce universal access to free social care services in England, pledging to present the proposal to voters at the next general election.
In an interview with the BBC, Sir Keir Starmer described the model as one where “everyone contributes, everyone is covered.” He declined to rule out tax increases to fund the reforms, conceding the measures might prove “difficult or unpopular” for some.
The Prime Minister announced he would outline his “vision” on Tuesday, adding that Baroness Casey, who is leading a government review, would advise on the optimal implementation strategy.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp accused the Prime Minister of signalling further tax hikes to finance the overhaul, stating the Conservative Party would oppose the plans.
Reforming social care has long been a flagship policy for Sir Keir Starmer, who has frequently cited the experience of his father, Roy, who had Alzheimer’s and passed away earlier this month.
Despite outlining his ambition to overhaul the system, the Prime Minister has yet to detail how the proposed changes would be financed.
Adult social care offers state-funded support to help individuals live independently, including home assistance.
Unlike the NHS, social care is not free at the point of use. In England and Northern Ireland, individuals with assets exceeding £23,250 are ineligible for local authority funding towards care costs.
Different eligibility rules apply in Wales and Scotland.
Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, the Prime Minister stated: “I am talking about a system that works on NHS principles because that is the only way you can make it work.”
“There is free personal care elsewhere in the UK. I don’t think it’s right that people in England don’t get the same, and it’s not something we’re going to rush.”
In Scotland, free personal care is available to all adults assessed as requiring assistance with tasks such as eating and bathing.
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