FAQs
Q: Who can I speak to if I have any questions?
A: Please first read through these FAQs and see if your question is answered here.
If it isn't then you can call the the Partnership for Care helpline number: 0300 111 8009.
If you want to find out about financial assessments for non residential care, or want to maximise your benefits, call the Fairer Charging Team on (01785) 277176.
If you want to discuss respite care financial assessments, call the Joint Finance Unit on (01785) 277176.
Q: Why are these changes being made?
A: They are in response to the feedback we received from the consultation process in November and December. A lot of people said that the existing policy was unfair because we were charging for some services and not others.
From this feedback, other work and extensive research, proposals were developed and Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet made the decision to put in place a new policy called Partnership for Care.
This new policy, which starts from 8 August 2011, sets out how much people should contribute towards the care they receive.
The County Council wants to provide care services that are good quality and fair. These changes have been put in place because, as people live longer, many with chronic conditions, more people will need support in their everyday lives. We must ensure that good quality services are sustained in Staffordshire as the numbers of people needing more complex care increases year on year but national budgets do not.
By making these changes now we believe it will create stability for the future and ensure we can focus on those who are most in need of support. It will also help to ensure continued investment in a wider range and greater choice of services.
Q: This is the first time I have heard about this – why didn’t you tell me before?
A: We wrote to everyone receiving care services about our proposals in November 2010. We also held meetings across the county with service users and carers. Please accept our apologies if you did not receive our first letter.
Q: I've received a letter, do I have to do anything?
A: No, you do not need to do anything. If you have received a letter it will explain about the changes we are making to how much you pay towards the cost of your care and what will happen next. We will keep you updated as to the changes and let you know if or when you need to do anything.
Q: How will this affect me?
A: If you are already making a contribution towards the cost of your care the amount you pay may increase.
If you have not paid for your care before, you may now be asked to make a contribution based on your means (income and capital).
Q: Will I be left with enough money to live on?
A: Yes. The ‘Fairer Charging’ guidance says that no-one should be left with less than the basic levels of income support or guarantee credit of pension credit (including the personal allowance and any premium or amount appropriate to you according to your age, level of disability and family status), plus an additional 25%.
Additionally, if you receive disability-related benefits (such as Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance (Care Component) you may also be allowed to keep an amount to cover the extra costs you have little choice to pay due to your age, illness or disability. Examples of ‘Disability Related Expenditure’ are heating, laundry and clothing.
You may also be allowed to keep an amount to cover certain housing costs such as rent, mortgage, council tax and house insurance.
This will be explained to you fully as part of your financial assessment.
Q: I can’t afford the service so will I have to stop my services?
A: No. As your contribution will be means tested (on your income and capital) you will only be required to make a contribution if it is considered that you can afford it following a financial assessment and the application of the policy.
Q: I live on benefits so will I have to pay?
A: Most state benefits are included in a financial assessment.
However, if you just receive means-tested benefit and have savings below the specified rate (which is currently £14,250), you may not be asked to pay for your care.
Q: Do I have to change the services I receive?
A: No. There is no reason why you should change the services you receive. However, if you are considering this you should contact your key worker first.
Q: What if I refuse to pay?
A: Your financial assessor will explain the implications of refusal to pay at your financial assessment.
Q: Will I have to sell my house?
A: No. The house you live in is excluded from your financial assessment.
Q: How do I apply for benefits?
A: Your key or named worker will be able to provide you with initial advice on claiming benefits. The council’s Welfare Benefits Service is available to provide further information, advice and support on maximising your benefit entitlements. Their telephone number is 01785/ 277055.
Q: How is this new change being calculated?
A: Your new contribution will be based on your means (income and capital).
Q: What is the council going to do with this extra money being received?
A: The County Council will use this money to provide good quality services for the increasing number of people that need them.
Q: My question isn't answered here, what should I do?
A: If it isn't then you can call the the Partnership for Care helpline number: 0300 111 8009.
If you want to find out about financial assessments for non residential care, or want to maximise your benefits, call the Fairer Charging Team on (01785) 277176.
If you want to discuss respite care financial assessments, call the Joint Finance Unit on (01785) 277176.
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