A PETITION has been launched to fight plans to stop having live-in staff to care for vulnerable residents.

Castle Point Council is considering getting rid of permanent wardens in the area’s eight sheltered homes.

The wardens look after people older than 60 who are capable of independent living with some support.

Mavis Hunt, 59, of Clifton Avenue, Benfleet, is starting a petition to fight the plans.

Her father, James Partridge, 85, lives in Sweetbriar Lodge, in Link Road, Canvey.

She said: “It is comforting to know there is always someone around to deal with problems that come up.

“It’s not the nicest part of Canvey and there is often trouble with yobs, which the warden deals with.

“I wouldn’t feel he was safe if the warden wasn’t there.”

Mrs Hunt said she hoped her petition would change the council’s mind.

She said: “I think it’s a real shame they are planning to get rid of this essential service.

“Hopefully this petition will lead to a more caring council.”

Other councils, including neighbouring Rochford, have already got rid of their permanent wardens.

In an e-mail to Mrs Hunt, Steve Rogers, of Castle Point Council, said the authority was reviewing the service. He wrote: “At present the council is considering how it could continue to deliver this service in the future.

“This is likely to be influenced by a number of factors some of which, such as external funding, will be outside the council’s control. However, no final decisions have yet been taken, nor will be taken, without consultation with residents, carers and families, as well as the wardens themselves.”

Castle Point MP Dr Bob Spink has agreed to present the completed petition to Parliament.