Caerphilly Council Plans to Increase Meals on Wheels Fees by Over £2.50 Daily
In a move that is causing concern among residents, Caerphilly Council is considering raising its Meals on Wheels fees by more than £2.50 per day for the majority of users. The council has cited financial challenges, stating that its subsidised Meals Direct service, which was saved from being discontinued in 2024 after facing public backlash, is no longer financially sustainable.
The decision comes after cabinet members directed officers to explore ways to save money, leading to a recent report proposing a fee hike as the first step towards ensuring the long-term viability of the Meals Direct service. The potential increase is expected to impact approximately 80% of the around 300 individuals who receive daily meals through the scheme.
Currently, the council operates a two-tier pricing system for Meals Direct, with 79% of users referred by social services paying £4.18 per day for a main meal and dessert on weekdays. The remaining 21% who enrolled in the program voluntarily or at their families’ request pay a higher fee of £6.89 for the same service.
The proposal under consideration aims to eliminate the lower fee tier, levying a standard rate of £6.89 per day for all Meals Direct recipients. This change would represent a significant 64% cost increase for the majority of users. The council argues that there is no legal obligation for local authorities to subsidise food services and notes that it is the only council in Wales with a two-tier pricing structure.
With a pressing need to address a multi-million pound budget deficit over the next three years, Caerphilly Council is under pressure to make tough financial decisions. The move to raise Meals on Wheels fees is part of a broader strategy to achieve financial sustainability within the council’s services.
Last year, proposals to discontinue the Meals Direct service sparked widespread protests and emotional debates, with many arguing that the scheme serves as a vital lifeline for vulnerable members of the community. Despite facing opposition, senior councillors defended the need for cost-cutting measures, acknowledging the challenges of balancing the budget while meeting essential service demands.
The final decision on the fee increase will be discussed at an upcoming scrutiny committee meeting, with cabinet members expected to review the proposal in the following weeks. The council aims to transition towards charging the full economic cost of the Meals Direct service to secure its long-term sustainability.
As the council navigates through financial constraints and public scrutiny, the future of Meals on Wheels in Caerphilly remains a topic of great importance for both officials and residents alike. With mounting pressure to balance financial obligations and service provision, the council faces the challenging task of ensuring the continued availability and affordability of essential services for its constituents.