PAPER B2

Committee : SOCIAL SERVICES, HOUSING AND BENEFITS SELECT COMMITTEE

Date : 3 JULY 2002

Title : MEALS ON WHEELS CHARGES

REPORT OF THE STRATEGIC DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL SERVICES AND HOUSING

1. SUMMARY/PURPOSE

Following representations from people receiving Meals on Wheels, the WRVS and Councillors, I have decided in consultation with the Chair of the Select Committee and the Portfolio Holder to withdraw the increased charge for meals due to come into force on 1^st July 2002.

2. BACKGROUND

As part of the budget settlement for 2002/03, the Directorate was required to increase the charges for some services above inflation.

Meals on Wheels were to be increased from £1.70 per meal to £2.25 per meal from 1^st July. Although this is a significant increase, the higher charge is in line with the fees charged elsewhere on the Mainland.

However, after taking into account the views expressed by users and others, and considering the financial position of the Directorate at the end of May 2002, I have decided to withdraw the increase in fees for 2002/03. By careful management of the revenue budget, I believe it should be possible to take this action and stay within the overall financial framework.

3. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The increase in fees was projected to realise £33,800 in extra income. This will now have to be met by careful management of the remaining revenue budget for 2002/03.

Contact Point : Charles Waddicor, ( 520600 ext. 2225

C WADDICOR

Strategic Director, Social Services

and Housing