The report’s overall aim was to judge the likely number of self-funders in the local authority area and compare that figure with the estimate made in an earlier study. Specifically, it sought to ascertain the kind of services people paid for, from whom they bought them and in what volume, what contact if any they had had with the county council in arranging the care, and why they were self-funding. It also examined the critical role of unpaid carers.
The report sets out and examines responses to a postal questionnaire and follow-up telephone interviews, broken down by age, gender, ethnic origin and living arrangements. Findings show that about 1.3% of the older population pays for personal care at home, about half the level predicted in stage one, though, for reasons provided, the true figure is likely to be between the two. The results set out those most likely to self-fund personal care, such as women, the very old and those living alone. When paying for care, respondents were most likely to go to an agency for services such as washing and bathing, and to pay an individual for other help, such as dressing and eating. However, the main source of help in all categories is unpaid, informal care.
The report finds needs and arrangements are too varied to make generalisations, but concludes with implications for local authorities, including the need to raise awareness of available allowances and the entitlement to a local authority assessment.
