Care at home is one of the most important ways we support adults in our communities. But we’re facing some real challenges - like rising demand, limited staff and financial pressures.
What’s this consultation about?
We’re asking for your views on a proposed change that would help us make sure care is available to more people who need it, in a fair and sustainable way.
What are we proposing?
We’re proposing to introduce a threshold of 25 hours per week for care at home services. This is roughly the same cost as a residential care placement. This change would help us:
- prioritise those with the greatest need
- make access to care fairer across all areas
- deliver care within the staff and budget we have
This doesn’t mean people can’t get more than 25 hours of care, but if someone needs more we’d look at other options and put extra planning in place, including considering residential care if appropriate.
Who would this affect?
Right now, only about 6% of people receiving care at home in Argyll and Bute get more than 25 hours per week. If the proposal is accepted all new care would be arranged with further consideration to care allocation dependent on circumstances if people exceed the threshold. If you care is already over 25 hours we would work with you to ensure this is still your assessed need but we may advise that your care is delivered differently.
We’ll also be looking at exemptions - for example, for people needing end-of-life care or in urgent public protection situations.
Why are we consulting?
We want to hear from you - whether you’re receiving care, caring for someone, working in social or health care, or part of the wider community.
We’re consulting because this would be a policy change, and we want to understand the impact it could have. Your feedback will help shape how we move forward.
How can I take part?
- Visit our Engagement Hub for full details and updates: Fair Access and a Threshold of Care Policy Consultation.
- Complete our online questionnaire.
- Attend one of our in-person consultation events (dates will be posted on the hub and in local media).
- Ask us questions directly through the Hub.
We’re also speaking with staff, carers and care providers to make sure we hear from everyone involved.
When is this happening?
The consultation is open from 31 July to 31 August 2025. You can view the full timeline and subscribe for updates on our Engagement Hub.
Your voice matters. This is about making sure we can continue to provide safe, effective and fair care for everyone in Argyll and Bute. Please take a few minutes to share your views - we’re listening.