Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council has begun a borough-wide consultation on proposed changes to its adult social care charging policy, inviting residents to comment on plans intended to make the system fairer and more consistent.
What the consultation covers
The proposals follow cabinet approval on 14 May for a revised charging policy and include consideration of fees for services such as deferred payment agreements—which allow people to delay paying some or all of their long-term care costs—and for the council’s appointeeship service, provided where individuals cannot manage their financial affairs and there is no suitable family member or other appropriate person available.
“Adult social care remains one of our key priorities, and it’s important that our approach to charging is fair and consistent. We’re starting a consultation to ask residents for their views on introducing fees for services such as deferred payment agreements ... and the management of deceased estates.”
The council says the changes aim to ensure people with social care needs are not charged more than they can afford and that charging is applied consistently with neighbouring local authorities. It also states the proposals seek to share the costs of administering specialised financial services more fairly.
How to take part
Residents can complete the consultation survey online at the council’s webpage for current consultations: https://www.stockton.gov.uk/current-consultations. The council will provide accessible formats and is running a series of drop-in events across the borough where people can ask questions and collect paper copies of the survey.
- Allensway Day Services – 30 July, 3.30pm–4.30pm
- LiveWell Hub – 31 July, 1pm–3pm
- Paper copies available at libraries and at the drop-in sessions
Further support is available for those who cannot access the internet; the council has provided a contact telephone route for assistance with completing the survey.
Why this matters locally
Adult social care charging directly affects people receiving domiciliary care, supported living and other long-term services. Changes to fees for deferred payments, appointeeship and administration of deceased estates could alter the amount some residents pay and the timing of payments. For families, clarity and consistency in charging arrangements can reduce financial uncertainty when planning care for older or vulnerable relatives.
Health and social care funding remains under pressure nationally; local authorities regularly review charging policies to balance affordability for residents with the cost of delivering services. The council’s emphasis on consultation means any final decisions will take into account local feedback.
Summary of key elements
| Proposal area | What is being considered |
|---|---|
| Deferred payment agreements | Introducing fees for arranging deferred payments |
| Appointeeship service | Charging for management where no suitable family member available |
| Administration of deceased estates | Introducing fees for managing estates after a service user dies |
Responses to the consultation will be considered as part of the council’s decision-making process before any changes are implemented. Residents concerned about how the proposals might affect themselves or relatives are encouraged to attend drop-in sessions or complete the survey online.
