Top-up guidance

This information is to guide everyone involved in the process of ensuring a smooth transfer of people considering moving from their homes or hospital into accommodation where care is provided. The general principle governing this guidance is to ensure that there is clarity on the information we provide as they consider the options available to them.

Reviewing the Top-up agreement

The Top-up agreement will normally be reviewed annually. Additionally, the agreement will be reviewed in the following circumstances:

  • If the third party stops paying their contribution, Lambeth Council will review the care needs and placement. The service user may lose the right to certain additional facilities, be required to move room, or possibly move to an alternative care home. Lambeth council will usually seek to recover any unpaid fees from the third party or their estates. This would include if the third-party dies.
  • Price increases – usually no more than annually in the absence of any other changes in circumstances. It is not guaranteed that price increases will be shared evenly if the provider costs rise more quickly than the amount the personal budget would be increased by. In most circumstances the increase will be shared on a 50/50 basis.
  • Where the person making the top-up payment has a change in their circumstances which reduces the ability to maintain the top-up, Lambeth Council should be alerted as soon as possible of such changes. An attempt would be made to negotiate with the accommodation a reduction in the top-up to an affordable rate. Where this is not possible alternative accommodation will be sought after a new care needs assessment.