Issue - meetings

To receive a presentation on two Adult Services’ consultations currently taking place on Charging and Transport.

The Committee received a presentation by Allison McCudden on two Adult Services’ consultations currently taking place on Charging and Transport.

It was stated that this review will address inequality between people who pay their full contribution toward a Direct Payment and those who have services purchased for them by the council at subsidised prices.

The presentation outlined the major proposals of the review and explained the planned charging mechanisms, whilst giving charging case examples in the form of a table, to emphasise how people in varying circumstances would pay for their care.

Committee was informed that the consultation runs from 2^nd November 2010 and had been extended until 31 January 2011. Cabinet will meet in February 2011 to discuss the outcomes, with any changes likely to be implemented in April with more possibly phased in over the year.

After consideration of the presentation, the following points were raised:

      Concerns over the closing down of information centres at bus stations, which would deter people from moving around independently, without the necessary advice and information services.

      That the current “dial a ride” system is working extremely well and should be supported. Clarification was sought over what will replace the Integrated Transport System when it ceases in March.

      Officers should ensure that the press and public are made fully aware that there is an extension of the consultation period until the end of January, and that other suitable venues,  perhaps more centrally located in Cheshire East should be explored, with Sandbach being suggested due to its good transport links.

      The extent to which there would be competitive pricing, and also that the reduced bus service to Leighton Hospital could create difficulties for members of the public accessing the hospital.

RESOLVED: That the Report be received and a further report be made in due course on the outcome of the public consultations.