care beds - elderly person - care costs to be free for over 85s in Cheshire East

Over 85s living alone in Nantwich will get free telecare support while others could see charges for social care packages reduced, Cheshire East Council says.

Care charges and services were reviewed following a public consultation earlier this year under the new Care Act.

Recommendations have now been approved by Cabinet members.

There are 5,500 residents in Cheshire East receiving some home care assistance such as washing, dressing, cooking and eating.

The Care Act also allows councils to charge carers for some services they receive from their local authority.

But Cheshire East says it will waive this option so carers do not have to pay and instead receive full support from the council.

Cheshire East Council plans to implement the changes later this year.

Cllr Janet ClowesCllr Janet Clowes (right), Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for adults, health and leisure said: “We are concerned to protect the health and safety of our older people and those people requiring personal care support and assistive technology.

“Our mission statement is no one will ever pay more than they can reasonably afford for care and support.

“Many of us will need care and support at some point in our lives and most of us will pay at least something towards the cost of our care.

“Everyone’s individual circumstances are different and so we will determine this on a case by case basis through financial assessment.

“Although some people may find they will pay more for the care they receive, over 4,000 residents will be paying less or will see no change in the fees that they pay.

“And over 85s living alone will receive free telecare assistance in their homes so they can be better protected and not feel it is a service they cannot afford to have.

“This is extremely good news for those people and demonstrates our commitment to looking after the vulnerable and older members of our population.”

Key recommendations on free telecare for over 85s and no charges for carers, came from an all-party task and finish group sub-committee.

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