CARMARTHENSHIRE County Council has said it will work hard to minimise the impact on people affected by the withdrawal of meals on wheels services.
The Royal Voluntary Society has recently told the council it intends to cease operating its meals service as of October due to a national downturn in demand, and will instead focus on alternative provision focused on befriending and support.
The issue was raised at Wednesday’s meeting of Full Council where Cllr Ken Lloyd, member for Carmarthen Town North, submitted a notice of motion calling on the council to take all steps possible to plan for the withdrawal.
“My real concern is that we get this right,” he said. “In Carmarthenshire, 214 residents are visited on 280 days each year – each visit is a vital lifeline and a link to the outside world.”
In response, Cllr Jane Tremlett, executive board member for health and social care, said that careful planning is underway to determine the best way forward for each service user.
“Particular attention will be paid in the reviews of our most vulnerable users to ensure any replacement service supports the health, wellbeing and nutritional needs of these older people,” she said.
“Carmarthenshire County Council remains committed to working in partnership with RVS and it is important to emphasise that this is not a cost saving exercise, as the funding currently provided will be reused to fund these alternative options.
“The RVS is committed to continue to support the service users of Carmarthenshire at home and the support will be tailored to offer a range of practical support, companionship, volunteering opportunities and activities.
“RVS will work with both local authorities to adapt to the changing landscape of needs and to develop a transition plan, in order that we can move to a safe and sustainable menu of services for both existing and future service users.”
- Watch the debate and read the agenda for this meeting on the council and democracy pages of Carmarthenshire County Council’s website at www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/home/council-democracy
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