A warning over care home fees has been issued by a new report.
Many people who have been overcharged for care costs could be unaware of a 1999 ruling allowing them refunds, the Observer reported.
In 1999, a court said that people in England and Wales should have care home fees paid for by the NHS if the main reason for the care stems from health problems.
This ruling only applies for those with spare capital of £23,000 in England and £22,000 in Wales.
However, the Welsh Assembly recently said that the compensation scheme in operation in the principality will soon be wound up.
Experts speaking to the newspaper warned that the deadline for reclaims on fees levied before April 2003 falls this Friday.
Lisa Morgan, a solicitor, commented: "If you had a relative in a home before April 2003, and you don’t register your claim before December 4th, you won’t be able to make a retrospective claim."
She added: "My concern is that there will be thousands of people in Wales who might not be aware of the deadline who’ll miss their opportunity."
Families who face steep care home fees and are not eligible for government assistance might consider taking out an equity release plan to generate extra income.
Posted by Claire Ford
