Template for Councillors

November 2009

Dear

I am contacting you because I am very concerned about the current proposals for the Council to progress with the tender of Housing Support and Care at Home Services in Edinburgh.

I am concerned because I am aware a significant number of people chose to take a Direct Payment to avoid being included in the tender and have the option to retain their current provider. This right has been denied by the Council freezing Direct Payment applications.

I am also concerned at the level of disruption and loss of continuity of service for many vulnerable people if the tender proposal is approved.

Many social care staff will also be transferred. It is of great concern that the ability of organisations to provide quality services will be significantly compromised through the transfer of services at low hourly rates.

The tender, if approved, will mean many voluntary organisations in Edinburgh will become very financially unstable putting at risk other services they provide that are not directly involved in the tender.

I urge you to vote or encourage your Councillors to vote against the tender being discussed on 19 November at the full Council and seek sustainable alternatives that respect the choice and quality of service that vulnerable adults and their families need.

Yours sincerely