Thousands to Receive £400 Annual Increase in Social Care Support
The government has announced significant financial support measures for vulnerable adults, with more than 150,000 people set to receive a yearly cash boost of at least £400. This initiative targets working-age adults who receive social care, providing much-needed relief amid ongoing cost of living pressures.
Minimum Income Guarantee Increased by 7%
From April 2026, the minimum income guarantee for working-age adults receiving social care will increase by 7%. This guarantee represents the amount individuals must retain after paying for home care to cover daily living expenses such as food, utility bills, and clothing.
The exact amount varies based on factors like age and relationship status. For example, a single person aged 18 to 24 will see their minimum income guarantee rise from £89.15 to £95.40 per week. Those eligible for the disability premium, an additional support for people with greater disability needs, could keep up to £510 more annually.
£723 Million Allocated for Home Adaptations
In a parallel move, the government has confirmed £723 million in funding for the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) next year. This grant assists older and disabled people in adapting their homes to live safely and independently, addressing barriers to accessibility and comfort.
Positive Reactions from Advocacy Groups
Jon Sparkes, chief executive of Mencap, welcomed the decision, stating, "The government's decision to uprate the minimum income guarantee for working-age disabled adults accessing social care by 7% is good news." He highlighted that Mencap has long campaigned for such changes, noting past hardships when rates remained stagnant.
Sparkes added, "Our ultimate aim is to build a society where social care is free at the point of need and no one with a learning disability has to use their benefits to pay for care. This inflation-busting 7% is a welcome step in the right direction."
Government Commitment to Social Care Reform
Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, emphasized the government's dedication to reforming adult social care. "We are determined to not only reform adult social care but do it in a way that helps some of the most vulnerable people in society with the daily pressures they face," he said.
Kinnock explained, "From April, more than 150,000 disabled adults will keep hundreds of pounds more each year - putting extra money back into their pockets to help with everyday costs. At the same time, we are putting more money into funding life-changing home adaptations so older and disabled people can live safely and independently."
These measures are part of broader plans to establish a national care service focused on quality, fairness, and dignity for all users, reflecting a comprehensive approach to supporting vulnerable populations.
