Campaign for Care in Dorset
Fear for their future and a lack of care facilities are two of the major problems facing local elderly people, according to an independent report.
The Dorset Association of Senior Forums have spent nine months investigating access to care services and their report reveals a service in crisis that is getting worse.
The report said, “Carers interviewed were concerned their needs were not considered and they were not engaged in the decision to cut service provision.”
They call on Dorset County Council to reverse its decision to withdraw support from those in moderate need and support only those with substantial or critical needs.
The report was launched after a procession in costume through the streets of Dorchester (see photo) followed by a dramatic debate at the Old Crown Court on Friday June 13th.
Volunteers from Help the Aged, Age Concern and Senior Forum groups helped to draw up the report. Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate Dr Sue Farrant was one of these volunteers. She said, “I feel very strongly about the need to improve care services for older people in Dorset. The recent cuts in care services are unacceptable, especially at a time when our elderly population and their needs are steadily increasing.”
