At least 9,000 families in Scotland will benefit from the introduction of Free Personal and Nursing Care for people under 65 who need it, following First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s announcement that ‘Frank’s Law’ will be included in the SNP’s ambitious Programme for Government.
Known as ‘Frank’s Law’ after the campaign led by footballer Frank Kopel’s widow Amanda, the policy will take effect by April 2019 and will extend free personal care to anyone suffering from a degenerative condition.
On visiting Mrs Kopel, Health Minister Shona Robison MSP said:
“I am glad to have met with Mrs Kopel to congratulate her on her successful campaign and to discuss the government’s plans. We will now take forward the work of extending free personal care to everyone who requires it, regardless of age.
“At least 9,000 people will benefit from this change and we will work closely with local government and others to implement these changes so that all those who require personal care are able to access it.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“Conditions such as dementia, motor neurone disease, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and cancer do not wait for a person to turn 65, and now sufferers will no longer have to wait to receive personal care, which provides respite to families during this difficult time.
“I am delighted that the SNP Government is now taking action to support the needs of these patients and their families.”
This announcement comes just days into the 6th annual World Alzheimer's Month and helps open a dialogue about how we can better support dementia sufferers in our communities.
If you have any questions about dementia and of the services available in Scotland, please call Alzheimer Scotland’s 24 Helpline on 0808 808 3000 or click here.
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