Direct Payments

I have been in receipt of Direct Payments for around six years. 
I have two problems with this :
1. Around 19 months ago Social Services reduced my Care Hours from 30 to 20. I was not happy with this because it meant that I had no time at all for a weekly outing with my carer.
I consulted a solicitor from a charity and lodged an appeal. The legal case is still ongoing but the Council's legal team are being obstructive and causing many unnecessary delays. This is causing stress of course but I also have the continual practical problems that come with reduced hours. Is there anything I can do to get Social Services to get a move on to restore my hours?

2. The Council has raised my weekly personal contribution to almost £57, which I cannot afford. They say that they have taken all my Disability Related Expenses into account already. They claim that it is central government that's imposing the increased charges. Is there anything else I can do?
Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you.