The new policy of free personal care for the elderly was planned as a new deal for Scotland's pensioners, which seemed to guarantee the dignity and security for everyone in old age. But now this policy is filled with controversies over serious lack of funding. Many medical councils are alleging that they have already run out of money to provide the service.
Earlier this week it was reported that more than 200 pensioners were denied their legal right to free personal care in the Argyll and Bute Council area. The councillors have stated that they have not got enough money to pay for the services. The authorities from the Executive claim that the councils should be able to budget so as to provide free personal care.Mike Rumbles, the Liberal Democrat health spokesman, had yesterday asked Caroline Gardner, the deputy auditor general, to investigate as to whether the funding packages given to councils to implement policies such as free personal care are sufficient.
Mr Rumbles, while stating that the Audit Scotland agreed to look into the situation, explained that the only way that to ascertain whether or not the Executive has properly funded these schemes or if council complaints are unjustified would be to have an investigation by an independent body. He also stated that if the Executive were found not to be providing with the necessary funding, then he would back the councils fully to ensure that they receive appropriate amount of funds.
