Purpose

To approve the recommendations and draft policy for public consultation.

Decision

RESOLVED that the Cabinet

·       APPROVES the draft Adult Social Care Charging Policy and agree to a public consultation of 12 weeks.  Following the consultation, an amended policy will be presented to cabinet reflecting the consultation outcomes.

Reasons for the decision

The Care Act 2014 is designed to ensure that people with care and support needs are treated fairly, with dignity, and are supported to live as independently as possible. While this Act places a duty on local authorities to meet eligible adult social care needs, it also requires councils to assess what individuals can reasonably afford to contribute towards the cost of their care, so that support remains both accessible and sustainable.

The Council’s ASCCP explains how this process works in practice. It sets out a clear and transparent approach to charging that is intended to protect residents from financial hardship, take account of individual circumstances, and ensure that no one is asked to pay more than they can afford. The policy helps residents understand how charges are calculated, what income and expenses are considered, and how decisions can be questioned or reviewed, providing reassurance and consistency for those who rely on care and support services.

The Council’s ASCCP will reflect feedback from the public consultation. Taking into account the voice of residents and what other supporting information, advice or guidance should be included within the document, or elsewhere (such as our public website).

The Council must ensure the ASCCP provides clear and equitable charging information for adult social care services. These recommendations aim to diminish possible inequities and ensure compliance with more recent judicial review case/s. This includes aligning our charging procedures with all eligible service types within the Care Act 2014 (i.e. those with a primary sensory need and clarity on applicable self-funder charging).

Alternative options considered

No alternative option considered as the ASCCP must be kept under review to remain lawful, equitable and transparent.