This 2009 Green Paper sets out a vision for a new care and support system. It highlights the challenges faced by the current system and the need for radical reform, to develop a National Care Service that is fair, simple and affordable for everyone. It sets out a number of consultation questions and asks everyone to provide their views about how they think Government can make this vision a reality and develop a care and support system fit for the 21st century.

For further information visit: Shaping the future of care together

The Government is suggesting three ways in which the National Care Service could be funded in the future:

Partnership – People will be supported by the Government for around a quarter to a third of the cost of their care and support, or more if they have a low income.

Insurance – As well as providing a quarter to a third of the cost of people’s care and support, the Government would also make it easier for people to take out insurance to cover their remaining costs.

Comprehensive – Everyone gets care free when they need it in return for paying a contribution into a state insurance scheme, if they can afford it, whether or not they need care and support.

People are encouraged to comment on the Green Paper; public consultation is being held until 13th November 2009 on the questions raised. In the foreward to the Green Paper the Secretaries of State confirm: "These changes will affect any care that you and your family receive, so we want to know what you think. We invite you to join the Big Care Debate." 

Consultation questions include:

a) Which of these options do you prefer, and why?
b) Should local government say how much money people get depending on the situation in their area, or should national government decide?

The consultation will run from 14th July 2009 to 13th November 2009.

For a link to the consultation visit: Shaping the future of care together - consultation

People can contribute to the debate in a variety of ways:

• Through the website and facebook site.

• Via leaflets with specific consultation questions, which will be distributed via GP surgeries, pharmacies and other outlets. These can be sent back to the Department freepost.

• Through a series of Department of Health events which will be held throughout the summer.

• By holding their own consultation events.

 For further information visit the big care debate at www.careandsupport.direct.gov.uk