Proposals for a £37 million rise in funding for adult social care providers are to be discussed by Lancashire County Council’s cabinet.

The plans include a 8.7-9% rise in residential and nursing based services from April.

County councillor Graham Gooch, cabinet member for adult social care, said:  “Our providers deliver services and support some 38,000 adults who need social care support in what continue to be very challenging circumstances.

“There are a number of costs which these businesses and people face, which rise every year in line with inflation, and we believe this  proposed  increase could really help them cope with challenges such as energy bills, staff retention and recruitment, the cost of living and other additional pressures on the care sector.

“It goes without saying that it’s absolutely essential to ensure people continue to get the social care support they need in what is currently a very challenging time for those in the care sector.”

The proposed funding rises for services are:

– 11.3% for supported living.

– 9.1% for five extra care providers.

– 6.7% for individuals based in their own homes who support adults with learning or physical disabilities or older people.

– 8.7% for providers of daytime support.

– 9.1% for people who manage their own care directly via Direct Payments.

– 9.1% for short term care services like crisis care, reablement and hospital aftercare.

In addition, over 7,000 carers supported by the council would see their annual payments go up in line with inflation, with those on a lower rate getting £321.73 and those of the higher rate receiving £475.61.