Residents get their say on social services charges hike

May 23 2011
Wythenshawe residents are getting the chance to give their views on council plans to increase charges for social care for elderly and disabled people and cut jobs.

The proposals form part of plans to save £17 million in the council's community services budget, including nearly £9million cuts to social care services.

Council bosses will explain the plans on Wednesday at one of a series of meetings across the city at the Quaker's Meeting House in Northenden at 2pm.

The council's key proposals include:reducing the level of allowances of income support plus 45% to income support plus 25% which increase contributions to care for some people scrap maximum weekly charge for clients to start charging on savings over £14,250 at £1 for every £250 over then amount instead of the current £23.250include the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance as assessed income for charging people needing night time care

Under the proposals an elderly person with a total weekly income of pension and benefits of £240, would see weekly contribution to care charges leap from £10 to £30.

Social services bosses say the changes will be fairer and will bring them in line with government recommendations and other councils.

The council is also consulting about supporting people investment, voluntary and community sector investment, as well as changes to social care and charging.

It is proposed that there are changes in the way the council allocates money to the voluntary sector and supporting people, by assessing the quality and cost of services including increasing the use of Telecare and better use of equipment, as well as changing the way it allocates money.

Residents can take part in this consultation process by reading and completing an on-line questionnaire, or by visiting one of the 24 events held over the next three weeks.

Wythenshawe councillor, Glynn Evans, executive member for adults services at Manchester City Council said: "Manchester looks after a large number of vulnerable and elderly people who need support and care, and we remain committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible services, despite the very challenging circumstances.

"These proposals will affect people's lives, so it is vitally important that all carers, residents and people who use our services themselves, tell us what they think and have their say.

"The council has to make significant savings to balance our smaller budget and we have seen a massive reduction in our budgets like supporting people. We believe these proposals are the fairest we could draw up in these very difficult times, but this is an open and genuine consultation process and all views and ideas will be considered."

For details of the proposals and other events visit: www.manchester.gov.uk/consultations or phone the Contact Service on 0161 234 5001.