Charging each Powys badge holder �2 would raise �6,000

Disability rights organisation Disability Powys has criticised proposals which would result in an increase in meals on wheels charges for some from �1.50 to �3.90.

It is also opposed to plans to charge �2 for parking badges, which would raise �6,000 from the 3,000 badge holders in the county.

But Powys council defended the proposals and said the meals on wheels increase would be on a sliding scale dependent on ability to pay.

This is an unfair and unjust tax on the disabled and people in poor health Jon Mackeen, Disability Powys

Disability groups will protest at the next full council meeting in Llandrindod Wells on 26 February.

The new policy has been instigated by the Welsh assembly to try to ensure charges for social services are based on the ability to pay.

But John Mackeen, chairman of Disability Wales, said: "This is an unfair and unjust tax on the disabled and people in poor health.

"This is a draconian measure made by a council that is strapped for cash and that has decided to tax the disabled."

Celia Davies, secretary of Disability Montgomeryshire, said one of her members, who now paid �194 a month for 14 hours care a week, could have to pay �640 a month from April.

"Although this member has an independent income anyone would find it difficult to pay this sort of increase in charges," she said.

"The council has handled this scheme badly from the start because a lack of information in letters sent to service users means people don't know what's happening."

A council spokesman said: "We are trying to produce a service that protects the poorest so that the ability to pay is taken into account.

"Implementing high charges would make people lose their independence and this would be counter-productive to us.

"This is not a money making exercise because it will cost the council �750,000 from its reserves to implement the scheme."

Powys council's board will discuss the proposed changes next month.