A new £670 million Bill offering free personal home care to those with the greatest health needs will help many people remain independent and live in their own homes for longer, according to health secretary Andy Burnham.

The Personal Care at Home Bill will guarantee free personal home care for 280,000 people with conditions such as dementia or Parkinson's disease.

And the Bill will also help a further 130,000 maintain their independence, by providing equipment and services in the home.

Some have criticised the plan, claiming the amount of people who would seek free home care has been drastically underestimated.

Mr Burnham said: "This Bill is the first significant step towards making our system of care simpler, fairer and more affordable. It offers help now to the most vulnerable members of our society, most of whom have already paid out significant sums towards the costs of their care.

"People want to stay independent by living in their own homes for as long as possible.  But we all face the prospect that one day we may need help with everyday tasks like washing and dressing.

"This shouldn't mean that an individual needs to move into residential care. Offering free personal care at home for those with the highest needs regardless of their means will help achieve this."

 Copyright © Press Association 2009

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