Appalled at care homes under threat; VOICE OF THE NORTH.

WHEN I read your report about care homes being under threat (The Journal, June 8), I was disgusted, no appalled, at what is proposed by Northumberland County Council social services department.

Is it a case of "I'm all right Jack", save some money, under the guise of giving clients freedom of choice? What will happen to the carers? Does anyone care about these forgotten heroes and heroines, who seven days and nights a week, have to care for a loved one? I speak from personal knowledge. Two of my friends are carers totally reliant on day care to help them get through the rest of the week.

On day one that their loved one goes to the day centre, my friend catches up on household tasks that can't be done while her very demanding 83-year-old mother is about. Her mother had a fall last year and is afraid to be left on her own so 24-hour care is essential.

Day two is taken up with washing again, plus shopping and maybe a visit to the hairdresser, if there is time.

This carer is 42 and has sole care of her mother as the unmarried member of a family unit. Her siblings live away and she only gets help when they visit twice a year.

What will happen to her if these draconian measures are taken? How will she be expected to cope with all the mundane tasks of everyday life, as well as finding companionship and entertainment for her mother under the proposed scheme? If saving money has to come before quality of life, where is this country heading? Why do we subscribe to this money-grabbing, disrespect for our elderly? Rest assured, we taxpayers are not going to let this pass unchallenged. Actions taken now can affect all of us. Make sure you attend the public meeting in your area.

NAME & ADDRESS SUPPLIED, Bedlington, Northumberland