SENIOR Lancashire County Councillors have been accused of ‘lacking compassion and common sense’ after deciding to press ahead with plans to increase home care charges for thousands of residents.

The accusation came from Labour group leader Azhar Ali after the authority’s Cabinet approve a review of the fees on Thursday.

The rise for about 5,000 elderly, chronically sick and disabled who receive non-residential care form the authority will range from a few pounds to £20 a week to save £2.9million a year.

Nelson East’s Cllr Ali said: “This is premature as the government is reviewing the whole question of care costs and grants to local authorities shortly.

“This is premature and lacking compassion and common sense.

“The Tories have jumped the gun and should have waiting for the results of the review rather than seek to inflict further financial pain on vulnerable residents who cannot afford it.”

The increase would affect recipients in Burnley, Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Pendle, and Rossendale.

Cllr Graham Gooch, cabinet member for adult services, said: “The rates we currently charge people are based on 2011 figures and since that time costs have risen by over 14 per cent. Given the council’s current financial position this situation can’t continue.”

There will now be an eight-week consultation on the proposals.

Cllr Gooch said: “Under these proposals, as with our current policy, people would only be charged according to their ability to pay for their non-residential care.