Rethink call on privatisation of city social care network

York Council's executive decided last month to move ahead with proposals to outsource its reablement service, which helps residents reduce their dependency on long-term home care by learning and regaining skills.

The authority has said the move is aimed at saving 696,000 in its first year and 1.25m a year afterwards and would allow the service to be enhanced to meet the rocketing elderly population while avoiding extra costs for taxpayers.

But the plans have sparked criticism from unions and opposition councillors who claim they are being rushed through and could severely affect the continuity of care, seen as vital for elderly people often already disorientated with their surroundings.

The decision has now been "called in" for further discussion at tonight's scrutiny management committee meeting.

Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing, deputy leader of the city's Labour group, said: "We have real concerns about the proposals and have tried to ask questions but have not got very far.

"There are real problems in care in the private sector with attracting and retaining a qualified workforce and the effect this can have on the continuity of people's care.

"In council services there is a greater retention of staff and more stay longer.

"Quality of care is a big issue and one that is very emotive for a lot of people.

"We are hoping to get some answers from the council officers and send the message back that these proposals need to be looked at properly.

"These things need a lot of time and should not be a rush decision."

Peter Dwyer, director of adults, children and education at York Council, said: "Older people in the city have told us clearly that they want to see more support being made available to help them live independently at home, for as long as possible.

"The opportunity to double the size of this important service without incurring additional costs whilst still affording employment protection to existing staff has to be seriously considered."