At Burnett & Reid, Aberdeen solicitors with decades of experience, we understand the increasing importance of planning for care costs in Scotland. Recent figures from The Scottish Government highlight that the cost of personal and nursing care has exceeded £900 million—a significant challenge for individuals and families preparing for future care needs.
With rising demand and escalating costs, now is the time to consult an expert family solicitor to create a plan that protects your assets and ensures peace of mind for future generations.
Key Figures on Care Costs in Scotland
The latest Scottish Government statistics shed light on the growing financial burden of care:
£915.21 million spent on care in 2023/24, driven by Scotland’s aging population and expanded access under Frank’s Law.
£473 million allocated to care for individuals aged 65 and over, marking a 7% increase.
Care costs for younger adults (18–64) have surged by 15% since 2018/19, reflecting shifting demographics.
What is Frank’s Law?
Frank’s Law, introduced in Scotland in 2019, extends access to free personal care to individuals under the age of 65 who need support due to health conditions or disabilities. Named after Frank Kopel, a former footballer who was diagnosed with early-onset dementia, the law was the result of a campaign led by his widow, Amanda Kopel. Amanda highlighted the unfairness of age-restricted access to free personal care, advocating for equal treatment regardless of age. Frank’s Law ensures that younger adults facing similar challenges can receive the care they need, promoting dignity and equality in Scotland’s healthcare system.
Government Support vs. Financial Challenges
The Scottish Government’s commitment to helping people live independently at home is commendable and aligns with many clients’ preferences. However, despite increased government spending, many individuals still face significant out-of-pocket costs. Working with an experienced Scottish solicitor can help you navigate these challenges and protect your family’s financial future.
The Importance of Personal Planning
Even with government funding, the cost of care can quickly deplete savings and assets, especially for individuals requiring long-term care.
Care costs vary widely—some people need care for only a few months, while others require years of support.
Planning measures, which can cost as little as 1–2 weeks of care home expenses, can provide long-term financial security.
At Burnett & Reid, our family solicitors in Aberdeen specialise in helping clients implement strategies to minimise exposure to care costs, ensuring that savings and assets are preserved for future generations.
Local Authority Scrutiny: What You Need to Know
When reducing exposure to care costs, it’s essential to work with experienced Scottish solicitors like Burnett & Reid who understand local authority rules. Authorities may:
Investigate financial actions, even beyond the standard 7-year gifting rule.
Focus on whether transfers, such as property, qualify as “deprivation of capital.”
Planning should take into account your global wealth, how it is structured, and your monthly income. Our team of expert Aberdeen solicitors can guide you through these complex regulations to ensure compliance while protecting your assets.
Secure Your Family’s Future with Expert Legal Advice
As one of the most trusted solicitors in Aberdeen, Burnett & Reid has been helping families across Scotland for generations. We provide tailored legal advice to help you navigate care costs and safeguard your finances.
Our experienced team of family solicitors and private client experts can assist with:
Creating robust plans
Protecting assets through wills and trusts
Navigating funding options and local authority assessments
Scotland’s aging population and rising care needs make planning more critical than ever. Expanding programs like Frank’s Law have improved access to care, but they’ve also increased the reliance on individuals to fund care costs.
By working with Burnett & Reid, your trusted Aberdeen solicitors, you can ensure your assets are protected and your family is prepared for the future.
Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced Scottish solicitors and take the first step in securing your family’s financial future.