Published on:
10
March 2014
Charges for care at home / daycare adult care services are set to start being introduced.
The tough decision was taken by councillors last year as part of the budget setting for 2013/14.
The Council wrote to everyone who receives care services last year 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 have written to those who receive care at home / daycare explaining what contribution they will now have to make to the cost of their care. The level depends on their personal circumstances."
Councillors agreed that the new charging policy would involve means testing so that those receiving care and support would only contribute what they were assessed as being able to. A financial assessment is being offered to those who receive care at home / 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.