Vital support service for Wolverhampton elderly is under threat

The city council's Neighbourhood Support Service (NSS) is being looked at as the cash-strapped authority faces spending cuts of up to £123 million by 2018/19.

Options being considered are said to include possible closure or handing it over to volunteers to run. A final decision is set to be made on its future in March 2015.

The service helps pensioners and disabled people of all ages by putting them in touch with organisations that assist them with tasks like organising housing repairs and modifications, providing financial advice and completing everyday chores.

Council bosses today said the NSS is just one of a number of care services under threat due to a "unprecedented financial challenge".

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Councillor Steve Evans, Wolverhampton City Council's member for Adult Services, said: "It's important to stress that, at this stage, no decision has been made and any proposals will be subject to a full programme of engagement with service users, staff and other stakeholders.

"We're keen to look at the all the options and any alternatives that the consultation may suggest before any decision is taken."

But service users and their families have voiced their concerns.

Carol Fiddler said her 87-year-old mother, Joan Beeson has been reliant on visits from support officers to her home in Green Park Drive, Bilston, for the past four years.

"Mom had been ill and decided she would not be able to cope at home when she came out of hospital," said the 62-year-old from Rugeley.

"But the people from the NSS helped her to settle back in and maintain her independence.

"They helped her rebuild her confidence and made it possible for her to live the life she so thoroughly enjoys.

"Their support has been vital. A complete lifeline for her."

Mrs Fiddler said the service has helped her mother with a range of things including modernising her house and renewing her blue badge.

"It is a devastating blow for her," added the retired sales representitive.

"I worry that a lot of people who rely on this service will be forced to go into homes. That will end up costing the council more money."

The Chervil Rise, Heath Town-based service was launched in 2009 to meet the expanding need of the city's growing elderly population.