Cheshire West to review social care charges

Cheshire West and Chester Council is seeking views on proposed changes to the way it charges for certain non-residential adult social care services. 

The local authority has launched a consultation on the proposed changes to the way it charges for care and support services, such as care received at home or within Extra Care housing or a Shared Lives setting, the provision of some transport and support to manage finances.

According to the council, the aim of these proposed changes is to make charges for services fairer and easier to understand, as well as to ensure that they can be sustained in the long term.

The council said it is keen to hear views from everyone, in particular, those people who currently receive adult social care and support services.

The closing date for consultation responses is 18 October.

‘We want our residents to be able to access and pay for support services they need in as simple, fair and understandable a way as possible,’ said cabinet member for adult social care and public health, Cllr Val Armstrong.

‘Our new policy will be consistent, fair and transparent, charging people who receive care and support following an assessment of their individual needs and circumstances, and we want local people to help shape it.

‘The proposed changes are designed to make the policy fairer and easier to understand. Some of the changes will mean an increase in the amount some service users will be required to contribute towards the cost of their care, whilst others may see a reduction in what they pay. I would like to reassure residents that they  will continue to only pay an amount which covers the council’s costs of providing a service.

‘The deadline for responses is Sunday, 18 October, so please take the time to make sure your views are heard by taking part in the consultation,’ added Cllr Armstrong.

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