Recommendation 10

While the changed timetable for rolling out Section 18(3) will help to stagger the additional assessments local authorities will need to conduct, we are nevertheless concerned about local authorities’ capacity to conduct tens of thousands of additional assessments, particularly given the size of the backlog that already exists. We are further concerned that the Government’s proposed workarounds will place additional strain on those requesting care and care workers, and could lead to an inconsistent service being provided and an increase in complaints. The Government’s re-evaluation of the combined impact of its charging reforms, Section 18(3), and the fair cost of care should include a revisiting of the recruitment and training needs of assessors.