Wirral care homes threaten legal action over cuts in fees

May 19 2009 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

The council has said there is an over-supply of residential and nursing home places in Wirral, with around 360 vacancies available at any time. It originally said it wanted to implement the new rates from April 1, with contracts terminated for care home owners who refused to accept them.

Cllr Tony Pritchard said he was disappointed that the scrutiny committee had refused to challenge the cabinet’s decision.

Cllr Pritchard said the cuts in fees could affect the level of care provided by the homes, and could even see some go out of business.

He said: “It will create hardship for these businesses in an already harsh economic environment where they face increasing costs.”

Cllr Pritchard said the cuts would “hit a cross-section of the most vulnerable in our society, from the elderly to those with mental disabilities”. He added: “The council itself had a 4.4% increase in council tax rates this year, and yet they expect these businesses to take a cut.”

A spokesman for Wirral Council said: “This matter has been heavily examined and scrutinised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committees.

“It has since been confirmed by cabinet.

“The director of adult social services, and his team, is now focused on looking forward to rebuilding positive and constructive relationships with care home owners.

“The council remains committed to working with the care home owners to develop a service which meets the needs of people in Wirral for years to come.”