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Published on Tuesday 27 October 2020

Councillors will be asked to consider introducing a single adult social care charging policy at BCP Council’s Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 11 November 2020. If approved, the new policy will replace policies used by the preceding local authorities.

The former Bournemouth Borough Council, Borough of Poole and Dorset County Council all used different charging policies for adult social care, resulting in local residents paying different amounts for the care they receive. If agreed, the new policy will come into force on 1 April 2021 and will create a single, fair and consistent charging policy for all residents who receive adult social care services across the area.

The majority of people who receive care do not pay fees for the adult social care services they receive and will not be affected by these changes. Those who pay part of their care cost will also not be affected by these changes. Their care costs are adjusted annually in line with inflation, but changes to their payment amount will not be affected by this new policy.

Residents who can afford the full cost of their care may see a change in their bill, particularly for those who require day centre transport in Poole and those who attend a day centre or pay for home care costs in Christchurch. The increase will be dependent on the specific care package and services an individual receives.

If the new policy is agreed by Cabinet, the council will write to all residents who may be impacted by the changes, with full details about how their payments will change and support options available.

Councillor Karen Rampton, Portfolio Holder for Adults said, "It is important that the council’s charging policy for adult social care services is fair and equitable, with residents paying only what they have been assessed as being able to afford towards the cost of their care."

"Whilst most people will see little change to their bills as a result of this new policy, we do recognise that some people in Christchurch and Poole may experience a rise in the cost of their care. We will make sure that there is early communication with anyone affected by this change and arrange for advice and personalised support to be available to anyone who may need it before the new policy is introduced."

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