City council introduces new Adult Social Care Charging Policies

Decisions have been made after cabinet members reviewed feedback after a 12-week consultation from residents on three policy proposals for users of adult social care services across the city.

On Tuesday 23 April, cabinet members at Stoke-on-Trent City Council approved a fairer charging policy. This is based on the feedback from a recent consultation in which residents were given the opportunity for people being cared for or someone representing them, to provide their views on these crucial policy proposals.

The three policies that were consulted on are:· Residential Care Charging Policy· Non-Residential Care Charging Policy· Adult Social Care Transport policy

This comes as the cabinet members have agreed to set out to utilise £2.1m to fund increases in adult social care fee levels in 2024/25. The level of support required for service users will be discussed and agreed within the care and support plan following a Care Act assessment and where applicable a financial assessment. However, individuals will not be asked to pay more than they can afford.

Charges for transport will be based on a daily rate which will be charged for City Council Transport provision. Whether a charge is payable will be determined by completion of an individual financial assessment. In addition, for residential care, the city council will charge for residential care in line with the Care and Support Statutory Guidance and undertake a financial assessment to determine an individual’s contribution.

Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for adult services said: “These decisions reflect the city council’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to quality adult social care services while balancing our overall budget position.

“I would like to thank everyone who took the time to provide feedback on the proposals regarding a fairer charging system. Resident feedback has been instrumental in shaping the council’s approach, providing valuable insights into people’s needs and priorities.

“Your response was valued and this demonstrated a shared commitment to shaping policies that positively impact our community”.