Funding cuts threaten vital services for older people in Leith, sparking community action and political appeals.
Local Councillor Jack Caldwell addressed the meeting, emphasizing the need to fight the PDP funding cuts. Representatives from Tracy Gilbert MP and Ben Macpherson MSP’s offices also spoke. Attendees were encouraged to contact their political leaders through emails or letters, with sample letters provided as a resource.
The Edinburgh Integration Joint Board’s upcoming meeting is scheduled for February 25 at City Chambers. The EIJB, a partnership between NHS Lothian and Edinburgh Council, initially faced a £32 million deficit. The most recent board meeting reported that the deficit had increased to £51 million.
Late last year, the board proposed cuts of £4.5 million targeting sixty third sector groups. This decision was made prior to the departure of a chief officer earning £180,000 annually. These groups rely on core funding to leverage additional funding sources. While the EIJB has a large £900 million budget, groups argue that this cut, though a small fraction for the EIJB, represents vital funding for their operations.
Phil Attridge, PDP Chairperson, voiced his commitment to protecting older people and preventing service loss in the area. He highlighted the potential loss of all funding and urged attendees to support the fight against the cuts. This support includes signing the petition, assisting on social media, and contacting councillors to advocate for their cause.
Anne Munro, a manager, considered the meeting a valuable opportunity for older individuals directly affected to voice their concerns. She said the meetings offered older people an opportunity to contribute to solutions regarding decisions that appear to take a short-sighted approach on funding cuts. They appeal to the Council and EIJB to listen and collaborate in identifying solutions. The current circumstances pose challenges for everyone involved and they seek support in finding solutions.