To approve the annual fee increases as detailed in tables one and two as detailed in the resource section and taking note of responses from Providers in appendix 1. The fees have been reviewed in line with contractual obligations and feedback received from social care providers within the market which are currently commissioned to deliver essential services to the most vulnerable adults across the county. The increase for April 2020 has been informed by the recent announcement of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) increase of 6.2%. Paying a competitive rate is essential in order to have a resilient market which can recruit and retain a workforce.

That:

(a)       Care providers fees are increased as detailed in tables one and two are approved and will take effect from 6 April 2020 and;

(b)       Authority to approve future annual fee reviews be delegated to the Director Adults and Communities.

1.         No uplift – this is not recommended, care providers will face significant budget pressure to meet the recent announcement of the National Minimum Wage (NMW).

2.         Pay a lower uplift within budget – this is not recommended, workforce pressures are already evident within the health and social care market. Providers must be able to recruit and retain staff to ensure continuity and quality services to the customers it supports.

3.         The council could pay a higher increase. This is not recommended whilst the council needs to invest in the market it has to be affordable.