Residents of North Yorkshire are being urged by North Yorkshire County Council to voice their views on a new controversial proposal.

Leaders of the council are seeking to reduce its budget by £169m and have stated fairness will be the cornerstone of increases of charges to society’s most vulnerable members.

The proposal has highlighted ‘how increasing life expectancy and rising mental ill-health combined with inadequate Government funding has led to a social care crisis.’

The County Council is asking residents to consider if people who need more than one carer should pay for the extra care and whether contributions towards transport to places such as day care centres should be significantly raised.

Opposition councillors said that although they appreciated the authority is facing mounting social care costs, they found the cost-cutting plans ‘a bridge too far.’

Councillor Michael Harrison, executive member for health and adult services, said: “The council continues to look at all areas of expenditure and any income the council receives to offset costs.

“In reviewing the contributions that people may be asked to contribute we will ensure the principles around fair charging are applied – namely that a person should only be required to pay what they can afford, that we are clear and transparent so people know what they will be charged, and we apply any charging rules equally so those with similar needs or services are treated the same.”

An officer’s report said the council are not proposing to pass on the full cost of transport to people but will consult on an increase to the contribution rate.

The public consultation was launched on 29 October and will run until 21 January.