Gloucestershire County Council is asking for views on proposed changes to its adult social care fairer contributions policy
Adult Social Care services are paid for by the county council with contributions from the individuals it supports. People can be charged for their care and asked to make a contribution in line with their financial circumstances.
The council wants to make sure its fairer contributions policy is clear, accessible, and fair, to support individuals with choice and control over their care.
Following a public engagement in 2023, the council reviewed its fairer contributions policy and is proposing changes which include:
- increasing the Minimum Income Guarantee (either for everyone or for some), and a change to the Disability Related Expenditure process, which may allow some people to keep more of their income
- a change to how the council charges for short break and respite care and
- the introduction of an admin fee for people who pay the full cost of their care, but wish the council to arrange care and support services on their behalf.
The consultation begins today (19 February) and will end on 6 May 2024. Everyone is encouraged to have their say, whether they currently pay for their care or may do so in the future, to make sure that it works for people now and for years to come.
People will be able to share their views by taking part in an online survey and by attending focus groups. To find out more and to have your say, visit the survey at: http://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/fairer-contributions-policy
There will be no changes to the fairer contributions policy, and therefore no changes to how residents are assessed to pay for their care, until the public consultation has concluded, and all feedback has been considered. Cllr Stephan Fifield, cabinet member for adult social care delivery at Gloucestershire County Council said: “The aim of the consultation is to ensure the council has a fairer contributions policy that considers the views and needs of people who are affected by it, both now and in years to come.“We are proposing changes to support individuals with choice and control over their care. These include increasing the minimum income guarantee, and a change to the disability related expenses process, which may allow some people to keep more of their money.
“I would encourage all residents to ensure their views are captured by completing the survey.”