Decision details

To determine the policy for charging for adult social care services in the light of the Care Act and publication of the final Regulations and Statutory Guidance.

To agree the proposals for consultation with people who receive chargeable care and support services and interested parties

That the following recommendations be agreed:

1.       The Council will consult, over a seven week period, on these proposals as part of a revised charging policy for adult social care services:

·      The Council exercises the power to charge for residential and nursing care and non-residential services in every case, unless it is prohibited from doing so by law or determines not to do under Council policy.    

·      The Council will charge an administration fee in any case where the person is able to pay the full cost of their care and support for a residential or nursing home placement but nevertheless the person asks the Council to make the arrangements for the placement under the Council’s usual terms and conditions.  

·      The Council will increase the percentage of available income taken in charges for non-residential services by 10% with effect from 1 April 2015.

·      The Council will consult widely on the discretionary elements of the new deferred payment scheme.

2.       That a further report be received by Cabinet at its meeting on 24 February 2015, detailing the response to the consultation and proposed Charging Policy.     

Reasons for Decisions:

The Council has previously consulted on the policy of charging for care and support. The recommendations made in this report do not significantly change charging for the majority of people currently receiving care and support but it is right that we consult people who may be adversely affected by the revised proposals. A clear and transparent policy on charging enables people to make advanced decisions about their care and support arrangements.

[The decisions on this item can be called in by the Adult Social Care Select Committee]