The survey, published by the Shadow Minister for Care and Older People, Liz Kendall MP, found that the average charge for an hour of home care has increased by 10 per cent between 2009/10 and 2012/13. It also highlights huge differences in the price people pay for care, depending on where they live. Councils have also been increasing the 'cap' on their maximum weekly charge for non-residential care, or removing it altogether.

'Many people with dementia and their carers are already struggling to pay for home care and some may not be able to afford the increased prices. The extortionate costs in some parts of the country don't even guarantee good quality

A campaign urging Manchester businesses to join the Apprentice Revolution is closing in on its ambitious target of creating 300 apprenticeships in just 100 days.

With 242 new Apprenticeships created in Manchester since the launch date (Thursday 9 February), the Apprentice Revolution campaign is succeeding in its mission to highlight the benefits Apprentices bring to businesses of all sizes and sectors - as well as dispelling some of the myths that have attached to Apprenticeships in the past.

Apprentices can be new or existing employees of any age. The government meets the cost of training for 16-18 year-old Apprentices, while employers can receive a contribution of up to 50 per cent if the Apprentice is aged 19 or over. There is also a £1,500 incentive for