Southend City Council is asking residents what they think about plans to change some services. This is because the Council is facing serious financial problems, as are many others. By law, they cannot overspend, so Councillors have to take action to set a balanced budget for 2024-25.
There are three consultations underway:
charging for adult social care telecare services. Telecare allows people to get help in an emergency, such as if they fall at home. Comments are needed by 26 January
changes to the way that Family Centres work. Family Centres have a range of activities to support pregnant women, families with children under five years old, delivers the Healthy Start programme and to help tackle food poverty and emotional wellbeing. Comments are needed by 1 February
plans to stop the Southend-on-Sea dementia support service. The service offers information, practical advice, and support to help individuals and their carers to understand dementia and live well with dementia. This includes running motivational and activity groups. Comments are needed by 2 February
We are hoping as many local people as possible will respond to the Council's plans. These changes could affect you, so please let the Council know what you think.
You can reply to the Council's plans by going to the Your Say Southend website:
You can also tell us what your thoughts are by calling us on (01702) 416320, emailing us at info@healthwatchsouthend.co.uk, or writing to us at Healthwatch Southend, 203 Elmsleigh Drive, Leigh on Sea, SS9 4JH