Care Support Independence

In the next 20 years the number of people over 65 in Yorkshire and Humber is expected to increase from 825,000 to 1.2 million, of whom 193,000 will be over 85.

As a result, the care system must change to meet the changing needs of society.

The engagement on the future of care and support involves members of the public, people who use services and their families joining Baroness Thornton to discuss their views on what kind of system they want to see in the future, as well as how it should be funded.

Alan Johnson said: "The care and support system for the future should promote independence, choice and control for everyone. It is important that everyone has their own personalised care plan so that they can choose how their needs are met both though the care and support system and the NHS. We are committed to creating a care and support system that meets the needs of our ageing population and their families. I urge people to get involved - the reform affects us all."

In 20 years’ time a quarter of the entire adult population in England will be over 65 and the number of people over 85 will have doubled. We expect over 1.7 million more people to have care and support needs in 20 years time.

Millions of people across the country are involved with providing and using care and support. This reform is about finding a new way to help people stay active, care for family members, retain maximum dignity and respect and have the best possible quality of life.

Members of the public can contribute their views through a website www.careandsupport.direct.gov.uk

 People in Leeds will today have the opportunity to shape Government policy and tell the Government what they think about the future of the care and support system in England.