Ministers agree to promote "Frank's law" for free personal care

Free personal care in Scotland will be extended to people of any age who need it, the Scottish Government has announced. 

The move marks a victory for Amanda Kopel, widow of former Dundee United footballer Frank Kopel, who died from early onset dementia and only became of an age to qualify for free personal care in the weeks before his death. The extension became known as "Frank's law" as a result of her campaign to change the policy.

It was adopted by Conservative MSP Miles Briggs, whose public consultation ahead of a proposed member's bill in the Scottish Parliament on the issue is still running.

At least 9,000 families in Scotland are expected to benefit from the move, which will take effect by April 2019.

Health Secretary Shona Robison commented: “I am glad to have met with Mrs Kopel to congratulate her and to discuss the Government’s plans. This change will help thousands of families across Scotland and Mrs Kopel has played a crucial role in bringing issues around personal care for under 65s to light and in ensuring they have remained prominent in the public’s mind.

“We will now take forward the work of extending free personal care to everyone who requires it, regardless of age. At least 9,000 people will benefit from this change and we will work closely with local government and others to implement these changes so that all those who require personal care are able to access it.”