Concern that support packages will be "cut to the bone"

4.13.09pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 16th Aug 2006

Liberal Democrat Chair of Bradford North Area Committee, Councillor David Ward has written to the Director of Social Services asking for case studies of the impact of the changes to the eligibility criteria for social care and a detailed briefing note of new services in the voluntary sector that are being development to take up the strain when the council pulls out of providing support to over 1000 elderly and disabled people in October.

Councillor Ward said,

"Since the proposed changes went out to public consultation (1) I have met many people who are really worried about the impact of the changes which seem to be leading to some care packages being "cut to the bone" for some people and for others will leave them with no help at all. Officers are saying that there has been an investment in the voluntary and community sectors that will pick up those people who the council will no longer support but I can find no evidence of that work being carried out.

"I have spoken to many groups in my ward to find out if they have had any discussions with the Council about providing any additional day care or support services but I cannot find anyone who is geared up to take extra people. In fact most groups have long waiting lists and one has closed down because of the lack of volunteers! Other organisations such as Age Concern and Mencap seem to be telling much the same story. This seems to be far from the rosy picture being painted by the report that went to the Council's scrutiny committee. I want the Director of Social Services to provide me with case studies that show people will not be left to struggle and demonstrate that the community and voluntary services are up and running, well briefed and more that able to cope. My fear is that is not the picture and that those in need of a little bit of help will just be left to struggle."