With the government’s white paper of social care expected to be launched on Wednesday, there is so much talk about the so-called funding gap and that older people especially should not be penalised for needing care. But even after 2 governments attempts at a solution, I feel some very basic questions have still not been asked.


The most basic of these is what do we mean by care. Many people believe this extra funding that the government will make magically appear will mean they can require in a BUPA care home on their 65th Birthday with all their expenses paid. I do not believe personal care is relevant to lifestyle and therefore society needs to properly define what is care and to ensure care services for not a shortcut to economic well being.


People are responsible for the economic and social capital they generate in their life and this white paper should not turn into a bumper harvest for the baby boomer generation.