Scottish Borders care charge consultation begins

Scottish Borders Council has started consultation over its social work department’s new care charging policy.

Among the proposed changes are the introduction of flat-rate charges for day care services and transport to and from such services.

The authority has said the principles behind the new policy are “equity” and “transparency”.

Over the next month it will gather views from service users, carers and other interested groups.

Any services subject to charges for the first time will be accompanied by a full benefits review in order to maximise income.

Social work director Andrew Lowe said: “As we move more services to the community it is clear that we need to review charges to ensure that they are fair and equitable.

“We will ensure that a robust appeals process is in place to ensure fair play as we introduce these new arrangements.”