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Release Date: 03/08/2012

Reference: P364/12

Thinking of residential care - helpful online guide helps gauge costs

Residents who are considering their future long term care needs and who would like to understand more about the costs involved in residential care will now be able to work it out with the help of a new online step by step calculator.

The confidential and easy to use calculator is the second of its kind to be launched by Richmond Council in a drive to help residents to plan for the future and understand how much they may have to contribute towards the cost of their care.

Cllr Nicola Urquhart, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Housing at Richmond Council, said: “It is important for people to have good information about care services and the cost of care. We don’t want people to be concerned, rather we would like them to be prepared and understand why they need to contribute to their care. Charges for residential care are set based on national means testing rules and I must emphasise that no one will be made to pay, unless they can afford it.

“It is important to note that the calculator is merely a guide and does not replace your personal financial assessment. Anyone who receives care services through the Council will be assessed individually, both in terms of their care needs and their finances in order to ensure the amount they are asked to contribute is correct. It is also recommended that people seek independent financial advice as early as possible when considering their long term care needs.

“If you do not qualify for financial support from the Council, the Adult Social Care Access Team will be able to advise you how to make your own care arrangements locally”

The Council’s website includes information on organisations such as the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) who can provide advice.

The online residential care calculator is available now on the website http://www2.richmond.gov.uk/ResidentialCalculator/

Find out how much you need to contribute towards other care and support services you receive: www2.richmond.gov.uk/ContributionsCalculator/

For guidance or help to use the calculator contact charginghelpline@richmond.gov.uk or phone 020 8831 6400

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If you are a journalist and would like further information about this press release, contact Abigail Gilbert Green on 020 8487 5049