P.O. Box 4156
Cardiff
CF14 0ZA

Blwch Post 41567
Caerdydd
CF14 0ZA

Tel/ Ffôn: 029 2076 2834

Email/ Ebost: ruth.crowder@cot.co.uk

25^th January 2008

Dear Ms Watson

RE: Consultation- Proposed Domiciliary LCO Committee - The National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence)(No4) Order 2008 relating to charging for Non-Residential Social Care (Domiciliary Care)

The College of Occupational Therapists is the professional body and trade union for occupational therapy personnel across the UK. Representing approximately 1500 members in Wales. Occupational therapists are employed in social services departments, the NHS and voluntary sector, private industry and other parts of the health and social care sector.

The College supports the general principle that legislative competence in the area identified in Matter 15.9 be conferred on the Assembly.

The profession is concerned at the great variability in charging for non- residential services across Wales. 'Fulfilled Lives, Supportive Communities’ clearly identifies the need to develop preventative services and ensure that people are enabled to reach their maximum potential. This includes services such as the provision of intermediate care and reablement, equipment and adaptation provision. It is important that all services are included in the eventual measure to prevent a skewing toward services that are not charged for rather than the most appropriate services.

The College is concerned at the impact of all charges imposed on disability. This includes any eligibility criteria or thresholds to charging, which may mean that services below a level are not provided. This results in a requirement for people to provide for themselves without a consideration of means and affordability.

We would be pleased to give oral evidence if the committee wished, and to provide any further information you may require. Please do not hesitate to contact the Policy Officer at the Cardiff Address.

Yours sincerely

Ruth Crowder
Policy Officer Wales
College of Occupational Therapists