Vow to deliver Frank’s Law in 2019

Ministers did not pledge cash for Frank’s Law in the Budget – but issued a fresh vow to deliver it by April 2019.

The estimated cost of abolishing care charges for under-65s with debilitating conditions is £1m a year, according to the Scottish Government’s own analysis.

A figure for Frank’s Law roll-out was not published as part of its 2018/19 spending plans, but it insisted the Budget will “prepare for expansion (of free social care) to include those under-65s who require it”.

Nicola Sturgeon vowed to bring in Frank’s Law following tireless campaigning by Amanda Kopel, the widow of Dundee United footballer Frank.

The four-year campaign, which called for an end to age discrimination in personal care, was backed by The Courier.

The former footballer’s family had to pay £1,200 a month for his dementia care at home.

In his Budget speech, Mr Mackay said they will “continue to support free personal care and the roll out of Frank’s Law by April 2019”.

Ms Kopel said it is wrong that people have to wait so long for the roll-out. She added: “It does hurt me. This is exactly what happened with Frankie – ‘hang on until you’re 65’.

“Now they’re telling these people now ‘hang on for another 18 months’.

“It’s hard to say it, but a lot of these people won’t be here. They’ll just be statistics like Frankie was.”

A Scottish Government source said they need time to set up the new system properly.

SNP MSP for Angus South, Graeme Dey, said: “With the Scottish Government now investing to build the capacity to extend free personal care to those under 65 who need it, we can look forward to this being implemented next financial year.”