Content

Views sought on Fairer Contributions Policy

Author: Nick Griffin

Published:

Barnet council is seeking residents’ views during a consultation about proposals to change its Fairer Contributions Policy.

The consultation, which runs until 6 February 2017, asks residents for their opinions on proposals for its policy which sets out how much some people are asked to contribute to the cost of their care.

Feedback from the consultation will contribute to the recommendations before a final decision is made on any changes.  Any changes agreed following consultation will not come into effect until April 2017.

The council’s Fairer Contributions Policy has remained unchanged since 2011. The proposed changes are intended to take into account such things as the rising cost of care over the last five years, central government changes such as those to welfare, new community care legislation, and the continuing increase in demand for care services.

At the same time Barnet Council faces a significant budget gap of £61.5 million between now and 2020.This means the council has to look very carefully at how money is spent on the services it provides.

The council’s Fairer Contributions Policy relates to community based (non-residential) care services such as home care, day care, supported living, extra care, and direct payments.

Contributions towards the costs of care will continue to be assessed on income, savings and outgoings to make sure no one is asked to pay more than they can afford.

Councillor Sachin Rajput, Chairman of the Adults and Safeguarding Committee, said: “Like all local authorities we have to think very carefully about how money is spent on the services and support we provide.

“These proposals are important ones and it is vital that people gives us their views before a final decision is taken.

“I would like to encourage people to take the time to look at the proposals and to give us their opinions on our recommendations.”

The consultation is open to all Barnet residents, anybody using adult social care services in Barnet, their carers and families and people who work with adults in the borough.

You can find out more, including details of drop-in sessions being held, and comment on the proposals, via the engage website.

For any further information, or to request a hard copy of the questionnaire, email the council or telephone 020 8359 3289.