Need to rethink cutting service

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Mrs Sonnicksen hit the nail on the head with her support for the Dial a Ride service under threat from a reduction in funding from Hastings Borough Council (last week's Observer).

She and others who find this facility a lifeline for housebound seniors, may like to know that the local Seniors Forum are campaigning hard to save this vital service. Committee members have made- and will be making strong representations about the serious consequences to so many of our residents with a disability that prevents them getting out and about by any other means.

Taxis are not an option as some council members seem to believe. Dial a Ride has a vehicle able to transport wheelchairs, and drivers who have the time and patience to assist passengers needing special attention.

We hear so much about problems caused by loneliness, and the serious consequences of ignoring isolation among our older residents.

This proposed cut to Dial a Ride’s funding will very likely result in, not only the loss of a much needed local amenity, but almost certainly an increase in the cost of caring for those whose one chance of getting out and about is no longer available. Time for a rethink ?

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