Proposed new care home contracts approach would benefit residents with flexible system based on public and provider feedback

If approved by the council’s ruling cabinet, the new model would come into effect from 17 August 2026 and apply to both existing residents and new care home placements across the city.

Under the new approach, the council would move to a more flexible system of individual placement agreements for each resident, replacing a single overarching contract model.

There would be a simpler approach to payments for care providers, with fees paid directly and inclusive of residents’ assessed contributions, therefore reducing the administration burden on care homes.

The proposals follow a period of public consultation and engagement with care providers, helping to shape proposals that reflect both the needs of residents and the realities of the care market.

Councillor Lynn Watkins, cabinet member for adult social care and all age commissioning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said:

“These proposals are designed to create a fairer, more flexible system that puts residents at the heart of care arrangements while also reducing unnecessary bureaucracy for providers.”

Cabinet will decide whether to approve the new care home contracts model when it meets on Tuesday July 14.