Website of the Department of Health

In 20 years time the number of people living in Greater London over the age of 65 will have risen to over 1 million, and the number of people over 85 will have risen to over 140,000.

As a result, the care system must change to meet the changing needs of society.

The engagement on the future of care and support involves members of the public, people from across the country who use services and their families joining the Care Service Minister Phil Hope to discuss their views on what kind of system they want to see in the future, as well as how it should be funded.

Care services minister, Phil Hope said:

‘At the turn of the century there were 19 people working for every one retired. That number has now decreased to four working for every one retired. It's vital I discuss, with the public how we can create a high quality, affordable care and support system for a rapidly ageing population.

The care and support system for the future should promote independence, choice and control for everyone. We are committed to creating a system in the future that meets the individual needs of our ageing population and their families. I urge people to get involved - the reform affects us all.’

In 20 years time a quarter of the entire adult population in England will be over 65 and the number of people over 85 will have doubled. We expect over 1.7 million more people to have care and support needs in 20 years time.

Millions of people across the country are involved with providing and using care and support. This reform is about finding a new way to help people stay active, care for family members, retain maximum dignity and respect and have the best possible quality of life. Members of the public can contribute their views through the Care and Support website. 

• Care and support website (opens new window)