INCREASES in home care charges could come into force across Calderdale, including Brighouse and Elland.

A review of the Fairer Charging Policy is under way which could mean rises in what people pay towards their care or an increase in the cost of services like meals on wheels.

The report says that in making savings they will “aim to ensure that all services are at least good enough but not necessarily five star’’.

Figures for Community Care Charges for 2010/11 shows that in Calderdale people are charged a maximum of £108 a week. In Kirklees the figure is put at £205.

Councillors will next week meet to discuss the current charges and the budget squeeze, saying it will undoubtedly affect people’s lives.

Clr Bob Metcalfe, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Social Care, said: “Nobody wants to have to consider increases to people who use the service.

“But the harsh reality is that councils up and down the land are in the same position of having to look carefully where savings can be made.”

The number of people in Calderdale currently paying the weekly maximum charge of £108 is just 61. Of the 2,125 people assessed for community care under the charging policy, 934 currently do not pay any charge at all.

But with an adult social care budget overspend forecast for 2010/11 of £1.1million, the pressure is on.

The report says the overspend is “mainly as a result of pressures on home care and direct payments budgets and (to a lesser extent) learning disabilities budgets”.

It adds that cuts would “inevitably impact on adult social care”, which is the second largest area of Calderdale Council spending after schools.

Councillors will consider a range of actions to reduce the cost of providing services, including increasing the maximum charge of £108 and increasing flat rate charges, such as meals.

A public consultation is planned throughout the borough to gauge the views of people who depend on the service, carers, partner organisations and representative groups.

Clr Ruth Goldthorpe, chair of the Scrutiny Panel Chair, added: “Health and social care budgets are always under pressure, but there will be even less money available in the future as government spending cuts start to take effect.

“This will have an effect on people’s lives and the council needs to find out their views before making any decisions.”

The whole of Wednesday’s meeting, at 6pm at Halifax Town Hall, will be dedicated to the issue. The public is welcome to attend.

A consultation will follow, on Monday, October 18, from 2pm to 4pm at Brighouse Adult Learning Centre, Church Lane.