We want to know what you think about proposed changes to the charging scheme for Council-run day opportunities. The changes will improve fairness, flexibility and choice for residents using these services, bringing the charges in line with all other adult social care services.
Councillor Tony Dicicco, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, explains: “We want to change how we charge for services, making the person’s level of need the main consideration. We believe this is fairer, as the proposed rates reflect individual circumstances. We also want to offer people more choice and flexibility about using our day opportunities by introducing half day and hourly rates.”
Day opportunities are a range of services for adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and older adults with care and support needs. The services help people to develop their skills and independence, enjoy the company of others and sometimes also to be supported while their carers have a break.
He continues: “At the moment, people pay a different daily rate depending on which service they use, regardless of their individual care and support needs. The daily rates are based on an average estimated cost for each group of people. That means someone with lower care and support needs is charged the same as someone with higher needs.”
If the Council goes ahead with these changes, they may affect how much people pay for Council-run day opportunities at Park View, The Courtyard, Colebrook, Pike Drive and Three Trees Community Centre. Any changes will be introduced in April 2025.
To find out more about the proposed changes and share your views, please visit Your Voice Solihull:
Printed information booklets and surveys are also available on request at day opportunities hubs, Solihull libraries and Community Advice Hubs.
The consultation closes on Sunday 1 December 2024.