'Light-touch' financial assessment
7.1
In some circumstances the Council may choose to treat a person as if a financial assessment had been carried out. In order to do so, the Council must be satisfied on the basis of evidence provided by the individual adult that they can afford, and will continue to be able to afford, any charge due. This is known as a ‘light-touch’ financial assessment. The individual adult has the right at any time to request a full financial assessment.
7.2
The Council will consider a ‘light-touch’ financial assessment if:
- The adult has significant financial resources and does not wish to undergo a full financial assessment for personal reasons, but wishes nonetheless to access local authority support in meeting their needs;
- In such circumstances, and where care and support is provided in a community setting, including respite care, the Council will charge an ‘arrangement fee’. (see section 12.7 below)
- Where an adult is in receipt of benefits/income which demonstrate that they would not be able to contribute towards their care and support costs; and
- Where there is difficulty in contacting the adult or their representative within a reasonable time to undertake the financial assessment. In such cases the Council will assess the client using a ‘light-touch’ financial assessment and charge accordingly. The charge will be reviewed when contact has been established and a full financial assessment undertaken.