Vital services lost

I AM writing to share my dismay over the devastating news of the cancellation of services from Food Train and Meals on Wheels, which deliver food and, importantly, company to older people in dire need of both.

At a time when tackling social isolation and managing the care of our ageing population has been high on the political agenda, the closure of these much-loved and vital services is a devastating and ironic blow.

While there is no suggestion people will be left without alternatives, what Food Train and the Royal Voluntary Service supplied was more than simply a home delivery service. Support and companionship make up the cup of kindness that goes along with a nourishing meal.

Many benefit, or have benefited, from services such as these and welcoming a friendly face into their homes has been a lifesaver.

We organise free monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties which offer a vital lifeline of friendship to older people who live alone. Our guests tell us at every party how much the company means to them because many can spend days alone with no one to talk to and nowhere to go.

It is terribly sad and the withdrawal of these community links will only serve to increase social isolation among some of our most vulnerable communities. Morna o’May, Head of Service

Scotland, Contact the Elderly.