Author Archives: Maureen

Preventative care for elderly under threat, survey suggests

Services have been cut or frozen by two-thirds of local councils since coalition came to power, according to ComRes study

Cuts

Three-quarters of councillors who had had their budget reduced say the cuts mean that elderly and vulnerable local residents are now at greater risk. Photograph: John Stillwell/PA

Personal care services that help elderly people remain living in their own homes have been cut or frozen by two-thirds of local councils since the coalition came to power, a survey shows.

When 435 local councillors in England were asked about social care provision in their area, 64% said their council had reduced or kept funding the same since May 2010 for preventative care and those classed as having low-level needs .

A third (151) had seen their local budget cut, with reductions averaging 16%. Among those councillors, 76% said the cuts meant that elderly and vulnerable local residents were now at greater risk, while the same number admitted they were worried about the welfare of such people. And 69% said people in need would now not receive the help and support they needed.

North Walsham men strip off to help multiple sclerosis charity

North Walsham men strip off to help multiple sclerosis charity

TOPLESS TRIO: From left: London Marathon runners Martin Church, Martin Hicks and Paul Gibbons who are also among the Men of North Walsham calendar models. Picture: SAARA GIRLING.

Alex Hurrell, Reporter Saturday, December 8, 2012
9:00 AM

Anyone who spotted 10 naked men around and about North Walsham last month may be reassured to learn that they had all stripped off in a good cause.

Christmas charity song launched by boy who communicates by blinking

Christmas charity song launched by boy who communicates by blinking

 

Published on Tuesday 4 December 2012 12:01

HE has spent most of his Christmas Days in hospital, but now a young boy who can only communicate by blinking is looking to bring some festive cheer to others with the release of a Christmas single.

Adam Bojelian, 12, who has cerebral palsy, is blind and suffers from a severe seizure disorder, is donating 50p from every download of Christmas Gibbons to the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland.

And the Forthview Primary pupil has been given a boost after getting the backing of film star Ewan McGregor.