Care cost increase 'cruel'

8:48am Wednesday 4th July 2007

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A FATHER has told of his disgust at plans to make massive increases to social care in Thurrock.

Pensioner Percy Stiles, 67, and wife Doris, 68, care for their Down Syndrome son Andrew, 42, at their home in Godman Road, Chadwell St Mary.

However, they still require help from the council.

Currently, the charge is just 6 a week, but under new plans by the council's Tory-controlled cabinet it will rise to 46 per week, and possibly 125 per week by 2010.

Mr Stiles said: "We can't afford that amount of money and I don't think many others, especially pensioners, will be able to. I think it's disgusting."

Mr Stiles is concerned the extra cost could mean Andrew will have to miss out on many daily pick-ups, such as trips to Tilbury Resource Centre.

He added: "It seems Thurrock Council are trying to abolish care in the community."

Labour group leader John Kent said: "The Tories are determined to force through huge increases in adult social care charges.

"We want services, users and their carers to join with us to defeat these cruel increases. We have called in' the decision and we want service users, their carers, and relatives to come and give evidence."

Council leader Terry Hipsey, said: "The Labour group just haven't got a clue on how much service supplier costs have soared over the last few years since they lost control of the council.

"My cabinet members, and newly-appointed director, are aware of the burdens service suppliers are charging at the moment, and are attempting to do something about it."