FUTURE OF DEMENTIA CARE IN QUESTION

THE future of dementia care hangs in the balance as the council announces a six-week consultation about impending changes to the service.

The council’s healthcare scrutiny committee has backed a cabinet decision to privatise respite care for dementia sufferers and vulnerable adults.

Its Dementia Commissioning Plan – which looks at how dementia support is provided – could also see day and homecare services moved into the private sector.

But since revealing the plans – which could result in the closure of Hollins View, the town’s only council-run care home which caters for dementia sufferers – it is claimed the council has failed to provide users with answers to some key questions.

Carers fear they will face longer journeys – but the council has confirmed service costs will not increase.

The council also said a formal consulation over the plans is due to start next Monday.