Leading UK charity Age Concern commented on government proposals regarding care payments for older people in recent days.

Director general of the organisation Gordon Lishman stated that the agency is "very pleased" that numerous government departments are working together with local authorities to improve care services.

"These changes are ambitious and will need very substantial funding if they are to deliver what is promised. The additional funds announced today, including money from the NHS, are very welcome," he added.

However, Mr Lishman stated that they only reflect a first step in the right direction and much more work is yet to be done.

The director general concluded that more far-reaching reforms to the care system are needed and welcomed the government's announcement of a green paper on care.

In recent days, the charity also welcomed the reforms put forward in the government's pensions bill, stating that it "should change the face of retirement saving and finally make pensions worthwhile for the majority".