Published on:
19
December 2013
Charges for care at home / daycare adult care services are being reviewed.
The tough decision was taken by councillors earlier this year as part of the budget setting for 2013/14.
Earlier this year, the Council wrote to everyone who receives care services to advise them of the potential changes.
Housing, Health and Care Convenor Councillor Les Sharp said: "We provide a range of care services to help people stay independent in their own homes for as long as possible.
"We have revised our charging policy for some of these services and look at how we calculate service users' contributions. This decision affects a number of services and the charges are being introduced in phases. We have already introduced charges for clients in receipt of telecare / MECS and respite care and are now set to broaden the scope of care and support charges to include daycare. The new charges will bring us in line with the majority of other Scottish local authorities and the COSLA guidelines on charging for services.
"We are currently writing to those who receive daycare explaining that we may soon ask them to contribute to the cost of their care, depending on their personal circumstances."
Councillors agreed that the new charging policy would involve means testing so that those who can't afford to pay will still receive care. A financial assessment is being offered to those who receive daycare services to determine what, if any, contribution, each service user makes.
A dedicated helpline has been set up and the letter contains information about how to contact the Council to discuss any concerns.