GMB calls for a universal National Care Service

22.07.10

GMB believes that the National Care Service should be fully financed by general taxation, not from service-users through the use of one-off lump sum payments or private insurance

GMB National Officer Sharon Holder responded to the establishment of the government’s Commission on the Funding of Care and Support. GMB published its GMB Care Charter for the Elderly (see notes below)

Referring to the terms of reference of the Commission, relating to how best to meet care and support costs as a partnership between individuals and the state, Sharon Holder said, ‘It has long been GMB policy that funding for social care should be paid for through general taxation. Throughout their working lives, individuals are contributing funds through their taxes to help pay for care when they need it. This need could arise through a disability during working age or during retirement at the end. This is their contribution to the partnership, through being taxed on their income.

By funding care and support through general taxation, it also addresses some of the existing inequalities in income. Those earning more should pay more tax, and contribute more towards an overall social care fund. It also protects individuals from having to use their assets to pay for the cost of care. This matches the principles of the National Health Service, by providing universal care according to need and free at the point of delivery.’