A LAW which would ensure equal access to free personal care for people under 65 who fall ill with conditions such as dementia must be a priority for the new parliamentary term, an MSP has said.
Miles Briggs is campaigning to introduce 'Frank's Law' in tribute to former Dundee United footballer Frank Kopel, who was diagnosed with dementia at the age of 59 and passed away aged 65 in 2014.
The Scottish Conservative shadow health secretary has written to Nicola Sturgeon to press the case for a change in legislation. At present, free personal care is restricted to those aged 65 and over.
Mr Briggs has already lodged a Member's Bill at Hollyrood which would extend it to younger people with conditions such as dementia, motor neurone disease, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis and cancer.
It comes after a long-running campaign by Mr Kopel's widow, Amanda. Mr Kopel's family had to pay about £300 a week for personal care costs towards the end of his life. He only qualified for free personal care payments in the final 19 days of his life.
Mr Briggs said: “Nicola Sturgeon always claims she wants to create a fairer society in Scotland. There would be no better way of demonstrating that than ending the unfair age discrimination currently faced by those with conditions like dementia, but happen to be under 65.
“The SNP has briefed the media about a radical relaunch, amid accusations of neglecting the day job for the past decade. If that’s to happen, the introduction of Frank’s Law should be one of the top priorities.
“There is a majority of MSPs at Holyrood in favour of this, and it’s time the First Minister recognised this. If the Scottish Government doesn’t move on this urgently, my member’s bill will carry on and seek to put an end to the current inequality that exists.”
Scottish Parliament business resumes on September 5.
The Scottish Government has already commissioned a feasibility study to consider the costs, benefits, challenges and consequences of extending free personal care. The findings are expected after the summer.
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