Older people face 'home care postcode lottery'

Older people are subject to a 'postcode lottery' when it comes to home care, according to a new study.

A survey by Which? found that hourly rates vary around the country with some councils providing free home care and others charging over £20 per hour.

Age UK charity director Michelle Mitchell said that councils may follow the example of the least generous local authorities due to the spending cuts.

"Even before public spending cuts start in earnest there is a postcode lottery for the cost and availability of services. Many local authorities are now seeking further cost savings, by reducing services, increasing charges and raising eligibility criteria for social care," she said.

Meanwhile, grandparents caring for grandchildren will be negatively impacted on by the spending cuts, one expert has warned.

Sarah Wellard, policy and research manager at Grandparents Plus said that the austerity cuts could lead to more children being put into care as their grandparents are financially unable to look after them.

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