Care England has expressed concern that a large proportion of local authorities are yet to publish fee rates for the care providers

Care England, the largest representative body of independent adult social care providers, has expressed concern that a large proportion of local authorities are yet to publish fee rates for the care providers in their area from April.

Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England, says:

“We understand that local authorities are under a great deal of stress, but care providers are suffering extreme uncertainty as they await the fee rates. A recent poll of our members showed that only between 10-30% of local authorities had made offers at this late stage”.

Local authorities are expected to deliver fee rates by the beginning of 1 April, but in 2021 members of Care England have noted that a larger proportion than normal have failed to do so. The majority of care home residents have their fees paid, albeit fully or partially, by local authorities and without prior knowledge of fees it is incredibly difficult for providers to plan ahead thus leaving an already fragile sector very exposed.

Martin Green continues:

“The time for adult social care reform is nigh. Commissioners need to commission for outcomes putting the individual at the centre rather than opting for the lowest rate possible. We need change”.