Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Decision approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: December 3, 2024

Purpose: To recommend the removal of the local cap on care charging. The local cap is currently set at £400 per week, and the paper recommends the removal of the cap, affecting approximately 35 residents but contributing towards MTFS savings in 24-25.

Content: Decision   For the reasons set out in the report and its appendices Cabinet RESOLVED to Agree to:   i)  The removal of the local care charging cap on care charging, currently set at £400 per week for non-residential services, from January 2025.   Alternatives Considered   a)  In Autumn 2023, whilst MTFS savings were being planned, several proposals were considered, these included: ·  The removal of the care charging cap – as outlined within this paper ·  To increase the care charging cap by £100 per week as per the original plan. ·  To increase the care charging cap to £1000 per week. ·  To do nothing and retain the current care charging cap at £400 per week. b)  After careful consideration of the options and the need to deliver a balanced budget and significant MTFS savings in 2023-24, it was agreed to recommend the removal of the local care charging cap. This recommendation was endorsed by the Council’s Cabinet and Full Council through the approval of the Adults and Health MTFS proposals. c)  As part of the consultation which took place between 15th July and 26th August 2024, two options were presented. Option one was for the removal of the care charging cap in Autumn/Winter 2024, the second option was a phased implementation, increasing the care charging cap to £1000 per week for the rest of the financial year 24-25, with the full removal from April 2025. d)  As outlined within this report, the removal of the local care charging cap will affect a very small number of those in receipt of services and have been financially assessed as having the financial means to pay for the cost of their care and support. It supports a position of equity, ensuring that following a financial assessment, people will either pay a contribution towards their care of the full cost of their care they receive. e)  Removing the local care charging cap aligns Newham with the vast majority of other London Boroughs, who do not have a local care charging cap.