Compromise may be reached on controversial social care charges in East Renfrewshire after much opposition.
People oppose the fees. A petition has over 1,000 signatures. The SNP also objects, saying it hurts vulnerable people. The fees affect some “social supports,” including help with shopping and community access. Personal care is not included.
The council will meet about this issue soon. Councillor O’Donnell hopes they can agree. An NHS and council group suggested the charges. They run health and social care.
The council delayed the decision before, hoping for more government support. O’Donnell said the charge is needed, citing “significant financial challenges”. The group faces a serious money problem and needs sustainable services. O’Donnell understands people’s anxiety.
They will assess people’s finances. A “taper level” will help decide payments. It figures out how much income they can keep. Officials first wanted a 60% taper, which could have raised about £1.5 million. Now, they chose 40%, raising under £1 million.
O’Donnell said their advice team will assist and check for unclaimed benefits. This can increase people’s income, helping those facing charges. He understands the concerns raised. Until they assess finances, the impact is unknown.
The cabinet has Labour and one independent member. About 500 residents could be affected. The NHS and council group suggested this plan. Overriding that group would be hard.
The budget strategy group discussed these charges, and everyone had concerns, but no one blocked them. The area’s health partnership could get more money. This would ease their money problems.
O’Donnell will write to the First Minister, asking about a promise. The SNP pledged to end these charges. East Renfrewshire is the last area to add charges. Inverclyde will have a lower taper rate.