Care consultation arrives in Hull

The government wants people's views on plans for a National Care Service

A debate on the future provision of care services for elderly and disabled people is taking place in Hull.

The government's Big Care Debate, which has been touring the UK, is being held in the city for two days.

The Department of Health wants people's views on proposals to create a National Care Service, under which everyone would get some care costs paid for.

Anyone who wants to contribute to the debate can attend the Big Care Debate Roadshow on King Edward Street.

The Department of Health said its research found 27% of people in Yorkshire and the Humber believed the government would cover their needs at home and expected them to pick up the cost of residential care.

Nearly a quarter of those who did expect to pay thought access to care and support at home would cost between £5,000 to £10,000.

'Revolutionising care'

The government said in reality more than 50% over people over 65 would need care costing at least £25,000, with 20% needing care costing more than £50,000.

Care Services Minister Phil Hope said: "Many people worry about getting older but too many don't realise the potential costs involved and they could be in for a shock.

"I don't want people to worry about affording care - that's why we're revolutionising the care and support system.

"We've put forward the options for how a new system could be organised and paid for and I want the public to have their say."