A MALVERN campaigner has warned funding cuts to social care will leave hundreds of vulnerable families without the support they need.
Cathy Jackson-Read from Malvern Wells will lead a rally through the streets of Worcester on October 31 as part of a campaign to raise awareness of what cuts to public services mean for people desperately in need.
The launch of the #Stand Up 4 Care Campaign was sparked by news of a cut of a further £3.3million to public health funds announced in the Chancellor’s summer budget which has added to cuts of £50million imposed on Worcestershire County Council over the last two years.
The group claim the added cuts will further reduce services and support to vulnerable adults across the county. The demonstration will also call for a public debate about the financing of services and support for disadvantaged and vulnerable residents.
Protestors will go up Copenhagen Street, High Street and then Broad Street before crossing the river bridge and gathering in Cripplegate Park. The march has also been organised by Coun Julian Roskams, leader of the Democratic group.
Organisers are hoping between 200 and 300 people will make their feelings heard during the short protest, starting at 12pm, and have informed police of their plans. No road closures are expected to be announced in light of the protest.
Mrs Jackson-Read, campaign founder, said: “To those of us fortunate enough not to have personal experience of mental ill health, a learning or physical disability, or simply getting older and more frail these are just meaningless numbers.
“For adults, children and young people dependent on the support of social care and health services these cuts mean the difference between surviving and having a reasonable quality of life.
“We just want to raise awareness and show people how these cuts are affecting people’s lives as there are a lot of struggling to live a quality life.
Carole Harker, an Upton resident who has a daughter with disabilities, said: “I’m marching on October 31 because I’m seriously worried about what help will be available in the future for families like ours.”
And campaign member Barrie Hinksman, added: “A good turn out on the day will show our civic leaders that support for vulnerable people is an issue of public concern and enable them to voice their own concerns about the impact of cuts.”
For more information go to the Stand Up for Care Facebook page or email [email protected].
