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You are here: Home Page > Health and Social Care > Help for Adults > What will I Have to Pay

What will I Have to Pay

Adult Services arranges services like home care and day care to help people live at home and keep their independence. Here we tell you how charges for services are worked out.   


How can I get these services?

Before we can arrange services for you, you will need an assessment. This involves a detailed discussion with you. If you wish you may have someone to speak on your behalf such as a friend or an advocate. We have to give priority to people who are most vulnerable, and so there are standards in deciding if you qualify for our services.  These standards are called Eligibility Criteria.


You do not have to pay for an assessment of  your needs – assessments are free.  After an assessment we decide what help can be offered and how we can arrange it. This is called a Care Package. You will be charged for the services you receive depending upon your weekly income. If aftercare Services are provided under Section 117 of the Mental Health Act we will not charge for services.


Home Care 
 

How much is it for Home Care

Charges are based on an hourly rate and the amount you pay depends on your weekly income.   

Can I get help if I need special equipment at home?

Our specialist community services staff will visit you at home and look at what special equipment may be provided to help you.   

What about meals?

Your social worker can advise you about a variety of low cost home delivery meals, according to your needs.   

How do I pay for home care?

We will send you a bill each month which you can pay monthly by standing order, or you can pay by cash or cheque at your nearest area office or at your bank.   

Will I still have to pay for home care if I go in to hospital or on holiday?

You pay only for the weeks you receive a service. A home care week runs from Saturday to Friday. It will help us if you tell your home carer in good time when you are going to be away, so that we can adjust your bill.   


Day Care 

  

How much is it for day care?

Charges are based on a daily rate and the amount you pay depends on your weekly income. If you live in residential accommodation arranged by us, you will not be asked to pay for any day service because the charges are already taken into account.   

What about meals?

You can buy any meal, light snacks or hot and cold drinks at your day centre. The charges are on the enclosed table. Some luncheon clubs run by voluntary organisations do not charge for meals.   

Will I still have to pay for day care if I go in to hospital or on holiday?

No. You only pay for the days you visit the centre. It will help us if your tell the centre in good time when you are going to be away, so that your bill can be amended.   

What if my finances change?

You can ask us to re-assess your financial circumstances. We will also advise you on how to apply for benefits.   

What if I think my bill is wrong?

If you think we have mis-charged you, ask your centre manager to look at your bill again. If you prefer you can contact the person who sent you the bill.   

What if I don't pay?

We will not take away your service, but we may take legal steps to ensure payment.   

What if I'm still not happy?

Charging is our policy, and will not be considered a complaint. But if you are not happy about the quality of the service or how you are treated you should first speak to your social worker or centre manager who will try to sort things out. Ask a member of staff at any of our offices for a Comments, Compliments and Complaints leaflet.   

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Health and Social Care

Bedford Borough Council is responsible for social care services within the borough. This section explains how we support people of all ages who may need care either at home or in another setting.