What is being proposed?
Like councils across the country, we are facing significant and increasing demand for adult social care services.
More people are living longer with complex care needs, while the cost of providing care continues to rise.
The council currently applies a maximum weekly charge (cap) of £533.87 per week for people receiving care and support in their own homes.
This means some people whose care package costs more than £533.87 per week but where financial assessment show they have sufficient means to pay more don't.
To bring us in line with most other council's in England and the government's charging regulations we are proposing to remove this cap from the 1st April 2027.
You must pay the full cost of your adult social care if, following a financial assessment, you have capital and savings above £23,250 (in England) and are assessed as able to meet the cost of your care without financial support from the council.
For those below this threshold they may have their care subsidised by the council following a financial assessment sometimes known as a 'means test'.
This proposal would affect just under 2% of the people who receive Homecare arranged by the council.
If the proposal is approved:
- People will continue to receive a care needs assessment and financial assessment.
- Charges will continue to be based on an individual's ability to pay.
- People on lower incomes or with limited savings will continue to receive financial support.
- The safeguards within the Care Act charging framework, including allowances for disability-related expenditure and the Minimum Income Guarantee, will remain in place.
- No one will be charged more than the cost of meeting their assessed care and support needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being proposed?
The Council is proposing to remove the current maximum weekly charge (home care cap) for people who receive care and support in their own homes from 1 April 2027.
Why is the council proposing this change?
To help ensure adult social care services remain sustainable and that people contribute according to their assessed ability to pay.
Will everyone receiving home care have to pay more?
No. Only those whose contributions are currently limited by the cap are likely to be affected.
Will people still receive a financial assessment?
Yes. Financial assessments will continue to determine how much a person can afford to contribute.
What protections will remain in place?
Existing Care Act safeguards, including the Minimum Income Guarantee and disability-related expenditure allowances, will continue to apply.
Will my home be included in the financial assessment?
No. A person’s main home is not included when assessing charges for non-residential care services.
How much extra might some people pay?
This will vary depending on individual circumstances and the cost of care provided.
Will the proposal affect eligibility for care services?
No. The proposal only relates to charging arrangements and does not change eligibility criteria.
How will affected residents be informed?
Residents affected by any approved changes will be contacted directly and provided with further information.
What support will be available?
Advice and support will be available to help residents understand any changes to their contribution.
Why is the council consulting on this proposal?
To understand the views of residents, service users, carers and stakeholders before a final decision is made.
Has a decision already been made?
No. This is a proposal and the consultation feedback will be considered before any final decision is taken.
When would the change take effect if approved?
If approved, the change would take effect from 1 April 2027.