Voluntary and Community organisations can help people get better informed about how the proposed changes will affect them by advising them to contact the dedicated helpline that has been set up to offer customers and families an estimate based on their individual circumstances. This was one of the messages given by Cllr Izzie Seccombe, Adult Portfolio holder WCC at the presentation to V and C sector organisations about the ongoing consultation process on 3rd August at Ryton Gardens.

Other key points included:

• The proposals are specifically a response to the financial challenges being faced now and anticipated for the future
• That this is genuine consultation – and that the responses would be taken into account to decide whether the proposals as stated go ahead, whether they are changed in any way, or whether other options for addressing the financial challenges are considered but that…..
• Really only options are
   - Providing services to fewer people i.e increase the eligibility threshold to critical needs only
   - Continuing to provide to people in the substantial category also but at a higher charge
• The new arrangements would bring in about £3m extra income to Adult Health and Community Services which is facing financial challenges of about £25m over the next 4/5 years.

The Help Line is available Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 12.30pm on 01926 418661. ( answer-phone service available at other times)
Fax: 01926 742976
Email: customerfirst@warwickshire.gov.uk