Overview

The Social Care Portability Bill aims to improve the lives of disabled people in England and Wales by ensuring that their social care packages can transfer with them if they move between local authority areas. This means individuals receiving care will continue to receive appropriate support even if they relocate.

Description

This bill mandates that local authorities cooperate to ensure continuous social care for individuals moving between their areas. If a person receiving a care package moves to a new local authority area, their existing authority must notify the new one. The new authority is then responsible for providing an equivalent care package within a timeframe to be specified by regulations.

Key Duties:

• The first authority (where the person currently resides) must inform the second authority (where the person is moving) of the intended move.
• The first authority must continue funding the existing care package until the second authority puts a new, equivalent package in place.
• The second authority must provide an equivalent care package, the specifics of which will be determined through regulations.
• Both authorities must cooperate to ensure a seamless transition, involving the individual and their family where applicable, prioritizing the individual's welfare and maintaining their dignity and choice.

The Secretary of State and Welsh Ministers will create regulations outlining details such as notice requirements, transition periods, and dispute resolution processes. The bill defines "care package" broadly to include various types of support services.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify increased government spending. However, it could lead to shifts in funding between local authorities depending on the number of people transferring their care packages and the cost of these packages. Further costs could arise from implementing regulations and dispute resolution mechanisms. Exact financial impacts are not explicitly stated in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Disabled people: Directly benefit from the continuity of care packages when moving.
• Local authorities: Have new duties and responsibilities regarding inter-authority care transfers, potentially impacting their budgets and administrative processes.
• Care providers: May experience changes in service demand as care packages are transferred.
• Families of disabled people: Benefit from reduced stress and improved support during relocation.

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