Ealing set to charge more for services

A cabinet meeting at Ealing Council into its multi-million pound
budget overspend has reinforced fears that users of social services
will face increased charges to help balance the books.

A spokesperson for the London council said the meeting had decided
to “consult on proposals to increase charges for meals on wheels
from £2.50 to £3 and to bring in charges for day care and
day care transport”.

Councillor Martin Beecroft, cabinet member for independent living,
said: “Our preference is to increase charges and maintain capacity
and service delivery rather than cutting services.”

A decision on the proposed charges is expected to be made in
October.