It is a deeply personal and painful story to tell, but it is one echoed by many families around the country. Fourteen years ago, after the death of her husband, my mother-in-law moved to live near us and due to her deteriorating health moved in with us and has been in our personal care for the last 4 years.  Now, her conditions have worsened after two falls, one while in day care, and one while recovering in a temporary nursing home where she broke a hip, making her totally immobile necessitating transfer by hoist.   She is also doubly incontinent and suffers from Alzheimer's disease and Vascular dementia. With her growing needs, we've had to move her to a nursing home. Alarmingly, the NHS, CHC panel have refused to cover the cost of her care.

This is the story of a woman who has worked throughout her life, continually paying into a National Insurance system designed to support citizens like her in older age. However, when it is her turn to need help, the support is not available. No elderly person in our society, after contributing their life toward the benefit of the nation, should face financial hardship or family anguish purely because they need care in their later life.

According to Age UK statistics, over 1 million older people in the UK go without the care they need. This display of injustice inflicted upon our elders is heart-wrenching and unacceptable in a developed and compassionate society.

It is time to call on our government to prioritize the dignity and well-being of older citizens and ensure that the National Insurance system they've contributed to does not forsake them in their hour of need. Please sign this petition and help us fight for justice for our elderly loved ones.