Calls for a judicial review over West Sussex care cuts

CALLS are growing for a judicial review over a decision to axe social care help for people with moderate needs. 

‘Don’t Cut Us Out’, a new campaign group speaking out for people with learning disabilities across West Sussex, has called for the review, saying 4,500 people have been ‘disenfranchised’ from front-line social care.

Now, the Liberal Democrat group on West Sussex County Council has joined the group’s call.

Cabinet member for adult services on the council, Peter Catchpole, decided to make the cut, despite the fact that 76 per cent of more than 2,000 responses to a county council consultation expressed concern over the proposal to provide services only to people with substantial or critical needs.

Barry Pickthall, for the ‘Don’t Cut Us Out’ campaign, said: “Those with learning disabilities are among the most vulnerable in society, but because they cannot express themselves, they have become easy pickings in the current round of expenditure cuts.  They have a right to life, not just an existence.”

Morwen Millson, Liberal Democrat group leader on the Conservative led council, said: “This decision will cause a great deal of worry and hardship to hundreds of West Sussex residents who need help with tasks like preparing a meal or taking a shower and now this support will no longer be offered.”

The cut will secure net savings of £6.5 million over the next two years and bring the council into line with 80 per cent of councils across the country who no longer provide funding for moderate care.