REGARDING the proposed closure of care homes for the elderly and the explanation by County Councillor Chris Cheetham, Lancashire County Council's portfolio holder for social services (Letters, May 31), I agree with the success of Lancashire's policy on rehabilitation.
However, I would like to see the county as the national leader working in partnership with all other agencies, including the Government, instigating a wider debate about care in the community for our ageing population, rather than a narrow discussion on county care homes.
A recent study by William Laing, recognised as an expert on the care home sector, states that there could be a serious shortage of places inside four years.
Having studied carefully the submission by the trade union, Unison, I support its recommendations. The county council should immediately reconsider its strategy towards the commissioning approach to care service provision.
It should immediately postpone any decision on the future of residential and day care services for older people until a consultative and transparent needs analysis has been carried out.
Let us all have the vision and determination to think medium and long-term, to provide adequate care for our ageing population.
COUNTY COUNCILLOR GEORGE SLYNN, Haydock Square, Great Harwood.
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