Parents may pay for half of children's council care
Derbyshire County Council said the change in policy was down to "financial challenges"
- Published
Parents whose children are taken into the care of Derbyshire County Council could be forced to pay up to 50% of their costs.
Cabinet members are expected to finalise the proposals at a meeting later this month.
A report, external references the council's "unprecedented financial challenges" as a reason for the change in policy.
People in receipt of welfare benefits will not be eligible to pay, the council said.
Social worker guidance
The BBC understands the change of policy could impact between 14 and 28 families each year.
A variance in the amount of return from the contributions is dependent on the age of the child.
If contributions are made for 28 children at the upper age range, the total of the contributions would be nearly £165,000 to the authority per year, council bosses said.
Results of a 12-week consultation found 49% of respondents agreed with the policy and 41% disagreed.
But 59% of respondents said it would "worsen relationships" between families and the council.
Council bosses said the concerns had been "considered" and there would be "detailed guidance for social workers" to ensure the policy was being "applied fairly and without broader adverse impact on families".
The assessment and decisions to request a financial contribution would be part of a qualified social worker’s role, the report added.
'Demands for services'
Brighton and Hove City Council and East Sussex County Council were highlighted as local authorities that have already implemented the policy.
Amanda Radley, from children's services at the council, said: "Derbyshire County Council has not previously consistently sought a contribution from carers or parents under this legislation.
"The council is now experiencing unprecedented financial challenges which are impacting on the council’s ability to meet demands for services."
Cabinet members are expected to approve the proposals at a meeting on 18 September.
Get in touch
Tell us which stories we should cover in Derby
Follow BBC Derby on Facebook, external, on X, external, or on Instagram, external. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk, external or via WhatsApp, external on 0808 100 2210.