Lawyers React To New Concerns Raised In Scope Report

Specialist lawyers representing vulnerable people affected by cuts to social care services are urging the Government to once again the review situation, after new research raised major concerns regarding the level of support available to disabled people.

The study by Scope found that 55 per cent of disabled social care users feel they are unable to get the support they require to live independently, with the same figure suggesting they do not have sufficient hours in their care package.

Around 36 per cent of disabled social care users added that they felt support had worsened in the past five years.

Specific cases which raised concerns included stories from people forced to sleep fully clothed in wheelchairs or even just eat biscuits as they are unable to afford or access the care they need.

Irwin Mitchell’s specialist Public Law team represent vulnerable people and the families of those affected by problems with access the necessary social and healthcare support that they require to get the best from life.

Expert Opinion

“The research by Scope highlights the type of concerns that we are regularly contacted regarding, with many vulnerable members of society feeling that they have been ignored or let down regarding the level of support available to them. <br/> <br/>“It is vital that the Government and local authorities urgently work together to consider what can be done to improve standards and services, with ultimate aim of ensuring that everyone is able to get the best from life and live as independently as possible. <br/> <br/>“Disabled people should not be left isolated and alone in this manner and it is vital that action is urgently taken on what could ultimately prove to be a matter of life and death.” Alex Rook - Partner