This consultation is Open
Consultation Open 04 August 2025 to 12 September 2025
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Under the Care Act 2014, Nottingham City Council has a statutory duty to assess and meet the eligible care and support needs of adults within its area. The Equitable Care and Support Policy outlines how the Council will fulfil this duty in a fair, consistent, and sustainable way.
This policy sets out the Council’s approach to delivering person-centred care that balances individual choice with the responsible use of public resources. It explains how decisions are made about personal budgets, support planning, and the use of community and preventative services. The policy also reinforces the Council’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and promoting independence for all citizens.
We are now inviting feedback on this policy to ensure it reflects the needs, values, and priorities of our communities.
You can download and view the Equitable Care and Support Policy here
Download (pdf)
Download the Easy Read version (pdf)
What is the purpose of the Equitable Care and Support Policy?
The purpose of the policy is to explain Nottingham City Council’s legal obligations to citizens who are eligible for care and support services following a Needs Assessment.
How does the Council decide what care and support I can receive?
Following a Needs Assessment we will calculate a personal budget. The value of your personal budget will be based on what it would reasonably cost the Council to meet your eligible needs. We will consider ways in which we can promote your independence and reduce your needs at assessment and review points.
Will I still have choice and control over my care?
We will arrange your care in a way that considers your choices and preferences, meets your eligible needs and is as cost effective to Nottingham City Council as possible.
What does ‘Cost-Effective’ mean?
The Council must use public money in a way that is fair for all the citizens of Nottingham who have adult social care needs. We will decide on a case-by-case basis the best value care and support plan that can be delivered to meet your eligible needs.
How does the policy promote fairness and inclusion?
The policy is grounded in equity—ensuring that everyone’s needs are met fairly, even if the support provided looks different for each citizen. It also includes a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring care is culturally responsive and personally relevant.
What if I want a Care & Support Plan that is more money than the most cost-effective plan?
We will talk with you about how this could happen. You might be able to put some of your own or your family’s money towards the cost of your care called a ‘Third Party payment’ if you are eligible for residential or nursing care, or you may enter into a private agreement with a care provider if you receive care in the community or in your own home for any additional costs.
What happens if I disagree with the care and support being offered?
The Council encourages open and respectful dialogue to resolve concerns informally. If disagreements remain, you will be informed of your right to access the formal complaints process.
Why is the Council making changes now?
This isn’t a change in the Council’s approach. This policy formalises existing practices and ensures compliance with national legislation. We want to ensure that this is communicated clearly to all citizens of Nottingham who may need to approach the Council for information about what to expect when they request a Needs Assessment or review of their existing plan.
You can download and view the Equalities Impact Assessment for this Policy here - Download (pdf)
If you require a paper copy of the survey, additional information or anything else that would help you participate in this consultation please contact us at engage@nottinghamcity.gov.uk and we will do our best to help.
The following short video shows how you can translate the survey. Answers submitted in an alternative language to English will be translated our end using Google Translate.
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