Norfolk County Council is consulting on whether to start charging its most vulnerable residents £12 a week — £624 a year — for a service that currently helps them manage their money for free.

The appointeeship and money management service supports people who have no family members to help them claim benefits, pay bills, and protect them from financial abuse. It is only used by people who cannot manage their finances independently.

The council says demand for the service has grown by 30% over the last two years, and costs are forecast to rise from £296,400 to £358,000 in 2026–27. It argues the charge would simply recover costs, with no profit made.

Cabinet Member for Commercial Assets and Revenue Generation told councillors that introducing the charge would bring Norfolk in line with other local authorities that already charge for similar services. Some residents in the community who receive social care may be able to claim the fee back as a Disability Related Expense.

The proposal has drawn criticism from opposition councillors. Cllr Jo Smith described it as targeting "our most vulnerable service users" and questioned whether a £600-a-year charge could be considered fair or reasonable.

The Cabinet Member acknowledged the proposal was uncomfortable, saying: "Introducing a charge for a previously free service is not a comfortable proposal and that is precisely why it is being consulted on."

Residents and carers with concerns are encouraged to respond to the consultation, which is open until midnight on 12 October 2026, via the council's website.