Cambridgeshire uncovers costs gap

A report commissioned by Cambridgeshire
Council has highlighted a significant gap between the costs of
providing residential and nursing care and the amount that social
services can pay.

The survey, carried out by Laing and Buisson
in Cambridgeshire during the past six weeks, reveals that there is
a significant shortfall, particularly in nursing care.

Cambridgeshire Council social services
director Liz Railton said that discussions have taken place locally
with providers about how the gap can be reduced over time. While
social services have increased the fee rates, it cannot afford to
close the total gap in one go, she said.