Sir - I am writing following the recent report from Age UK which suggests a ‘catastrophic’ situation is developing in England, with many vulnerable elderly people being denied the care which they often rely on. I was both shocked and saddened to read that last year a staggering 800,000 older people went without vital care, and 168,000 older people lost out on help with eating, washing, and getting dressed – valuable support which enables them to lead a dignified and independent life in their own home.

Although the government believes cutting the cost of social care is an essential step in reducing the country’s spending, in reality it can have distressing human costs, including loneliness, isolation, and upset, not to mention a greater physical and emotional pressure for loved ones who are often left to pick up the pieces. With elderly people living longer than ever before due to our improved standard of living, this is not a situation that will go away overnight, and more absolutely needs to be done to ensure vulnerable people aren’t going without the care they need.

The funding of our vital services such as social care and the health service needs to be radically evaluated in-line with the changing needs of our population, particularly the older generation. I’d urge the government to assess the current system and make sure funding is appropriately allocated to ensure elderly and vulnerable individuals receive the care they are entitled to.

Hannah MacKechnie

Radfield Home Care, Worcester