The campaign by local Liberal Democrats against Labour’s proposals to close four drop-in centres used by vulnerable older people in Haringey took another step today as councillors formally contested the decision.
 
In order to try to reverse Labour’s plan to close older people’s drop-in centres at Willoughby Road, Abyssinia Court, the Irish Centre and Woodside House, as well as the luncheon club at Jackson’s Lane, Liberal Democrats have sought a last-minute policy change by referring the proposals to the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny committee.
 
Liberal Democrats believe that the cuts proposed by Labour represent an assault on the vital preventative services provided at drop-in centres throughout the borough and would lead to more vulnerable elderly residents becoming socially isolated.
 
Since Haringey Council published details of plans to close drop-in centres, local Liberal Democrats have spearheaded a campaign to save the services. In February Labour voted against Liberal Democrat budget proposals to keep drop-in centres open.
 
Cllr David Winskill, Liberal Democrat Adult Social Services spokesperson, comments:
 
“Some vulnerable older residents rely on these services to get out of the house, see friends, get a good meal and access health services. Without these services older people will become socially isolated and their health may deteriorate.
 
“This is a short-sighted cut to vital services that will not benefit older people and in the long term will not provide the savings identified.”
 
Lynne Featherstone MP, adds:
 
“This is not the first time that Labour has tried to close our older people’s drop-in services and luncheon clubs. Previously, in 2000 and 2006, our battles to save the clubs were successful, I hope that Labour will see sense again.”