How much do services cost?

Some services are free and some services charge. Before they start work, you should agree any costs and what you get for your money.

You can find some good advice about choosing a service at www.salford.gov.uk/repairs Some simple tips are:

• Know who you are dealing with – if you only get a mobile phone number, ask how else you can get in contact. Get a proper address.

• Ask how long they have been in business. • If they say that they are a member of a trade association, check it out.

• Get quotes from different services and make sure they are all giving you the price for the same work. Ask them to visit to discuss what you want.

Some services are regulated – for example podiatrists, chiropodists and physiotherapists must be registered with the Health Professions Council.

Ask for their registration number and check at www.hpcheck.org or telephone 020 7840 9802.

Some home care services have agreed to Salford City Council standards. In 2011/2012, they have agreed to charge no more than £12.36 an hour. You can get a full list from www.salford.gov.uk/personal-homecare

If you are worried you cannot afford a service, call our Welfare Rights Service. You may be entitled to more benefits so that you have extra money to spend on services.

Who can have social care support from the council?

We can only support people who are at most risk of becoming unwell, unsafe or losing their independence. We use a national system called Fair Access to Care Services to help us work out who we can support. You can find more information at www.salford.gov.uk/facs

In general, the greater the risk to your health, safety and independence, the more we can support you.