Londoners support Income Tax rise to fund elderly care
There is strong support across London for boosting social care funding through income tax.
A YouGov survey analysed by BMAS has revealed that most Londoners would support an increase in income tax to fund social care.
The findings show widespread support in London for both moderate and significant income tax increases. This would ensure that older people who can no longer live independently receive the social care they need.
Currently, government support is means-tested and elderly people with savings over £23,250 are expected to contribute to the cost of their own care, sometimes even selling their own home to pay for it.
Respondents were asked which of these policies they would prefer regarding the cost of social care for older people who can no longer live independently.
33% of Londoners support a moderate income tax increase, making it the most popular option in the capital.
How Support for Elderly Social Care Funding Breaks Down in London (21/04/2025)
| Currently, the government will pay for long term care for people who are the least well off, but anyone with savings (more than £23,250) has to pay for some or all of the cost of their care. This will sometimes include having to sell their home. Overall, which of these policies would you prefer regarding the cost of social care for older people who can no longer live independently? | |
| Responses | London |
| A significant increase in income tax, so that social care is available, free, to everyone who needs it. | 20% |
| A moderate increase in income tax so that subsidised social care is available to most people who need it, subject to a means test | 33% |
| A small increase in income tax so that subsidised social care is available only to the least well off. | 10% |
| No increase in income tax, so that individuals and families take responsibility for providing, or paying for, social care. | 16% |
20% support a significant income tax increase to make care free at the point of need, the highest level of support for this option across the country.
Only 10% of London-based respondents supported a small increase targeted at helping the least well off.
16% of Londoners believe there should be no increase at all, meaning families would bear the care costs themselves.
Elderly Care Cost-Saving Tips
Make small changes to your home sooner rather than later. Consider changes you can make to your home, such as stairlifts, grab rails and walk-in showers. Adapting the home is often the best way to delay the move to costly residential care.
What Are You Entitled To?
Check which benefits you may be eligible for such as attendance allowance, NHS continuing healthcare or council-funded home adaptations through the Local Authority Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). By researching available benefits, families can save thousands of pounds. Contact your local council’s Adult Social Care team to find out what is available. There are also VAT exemptions on mobility and disability equipment in the UK.
Plan Financially to Protect Savings
Get financial advice tailored to your family structure, household layout, specific needs, and budget.
Explore All Care Options
There are a variety of care options available such as live-in carers and supported living which are often more affordable than a full-time care home and often better for well-being too.
Talk About It Early
Open family conversations can make tough decisions less stressful and help everyone feel prepared if care needs suddenly change.
Amelia Hornsby from BMAS concludes, “Choosing a cost-effective elderly care arrangement is one of the most difficult decisions families encounter. It can be overwhelming due to the number of options available.