§ Mr. Gareth WardellTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he has taken to(a) ensure that health authorities and social services departments were made aware of the fact that from 11 April elderly people will no longer have access to private nursing homes until their own homes have been sold; and (b) increase funds for community care provision to cater for the increased number of elderly people who need nursing care and have to remain at home.
§ Mr. PortilloIt is not necessary for a person to sell his home before entering private care. However, when he takes up permanent residence in a residential care home or nursing home he will not be entitled to income support if the net value of his former home together with any other capital goods he has exceeds £6,000. The value of the previous home will he disregarded in certain circumstances including if it is occupied by the person's partner.
The need for additional community services should not arise and there was no need to consult social services or health authorities.
§ Mr. Gareth WardellTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with the major clearing banks regarding the availability of loans for persons needing immediate access to capital locked up in their home for use to pay nursing home fees, in the light of the withdrawal under the new social security regulations of loans from his Department for this purpose.
§ Mr. PortilloWe have written to all the major clearing banks. They have assured us that loans will be made available in these circumstances, subject to the normal conditions.