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Executive (I)
Tuesday, 8th October, 2013

REPORT TO:24
DECISION NUMBER:PH/104/2013
EARLIEST DATE FOR DECISION:8th October 2013

FAIRER CONTRIBUTIONS POLICY AMENDED VERSION
Matter for Consideration:
To consider an amended version of the Fairer Contributions Policy which covers the charging arrangements for adult non-residential care. The Policy which was first introduced in January 2012 has been updated to reflect various changes to local and Department for Work and Pension welfare benefit payments.
Information:
The Council's Fairer Contributions Policy was first introduced on 1st January 2012. This policy replaced the previous Fairer Charging Policy covering the charging arrangements for adult non-residential care.

The guidance for Councils with Social Services Responsibilities issued by the Department of Health entitled "Fairer Charging Policies for Home Care and other non-residential Social Services" has been amended to reflect certain changes to welfare benefits, including the introduction of the Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit and changes to Guaranteed Income Payments.

The Council's Fairer Contributions Policy has been amended to reflect the recently issued guidance.

Does the information submitted include any exempt information?NO
Legal Considerations:
There is a need to reflect Department of Health Guidance regarding "Fairer Charging Policies for Home Care and other non-residential Social Services" in the Council's Fairer Contributions Policy.
Personnel Considerations:
There are no Human Resources implications. There may be a marginal impact on the amount some service users (with a disability or frailty receiving non-residential support) are asked to contribute towards the cost of their care as a result of the changes to certain welfare benefits.
Financial Considerations:
It is not anticipated that there will be any significant impact upon the level of income received as a result of the changes.
Performance Management Considerations:
None
Risk Management Considerations:
None
Relevant Officer:
Delyth Curtis - Assistant Chief Executive Adult Services
Relevant Cabinet Member:
Councillor K. Rowson
Consultation Undertaken:
The Fairer Contributions Policy was subject to consultation at the time of its introduction.
Background Papers:
Is this a key decision?NO
Is the decision required in less than 5 days?NO
Recommendations:
To agree the amended Fairer Contributions Policy, as attached at Appendix A, which will replace the previous version.
Reasons for Recommendations:
To reflect the changes required to the Fairer Contributions Policy as a result of the changes to certain welfare benefits.
Is the recommendation contrary to a plan or strategy adopted or approved by the Council?NO
Is the recommendation in accordance with the Council’s approved Budget?YES
Other alternative options to be considered:
Not to amend the Fairer Contributions Policy but this is not recommended as the policy would then not be in line with the Department for Health’s guidance.
Policy, Overview, and Scrutiny Committee Chairman (where appropriate)
Date Informed: N/A
Date Approved: N/A
DECLARATION(S) OF INTEREST (if applicable)
None
Decision:
The Cabinet Member agreed the recommendation as outlined above namely: To agree the amended Fairer Contributions Policy, as attached at Appendix A, which will replace the previous version.
Date:8th October 2013
Reason for Decision:
To reflect the changes required to the Fairer Contributions Policy as a result of the changes to certain welfare benefits.

Date of Publication:		8th October 2013


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