We must not get rid of wardens
I would like to express my deep concerns about the withdrawal of the warden service at Elm Park and other SBHA-run sheltered housing schemes within the Borders.
I agree with John Lamont MSP that SBC should have reached a compromise with SBHA to ensure the continuation of this service.
Many of the service-users are elderly, many are vulnerable – and yes, many of them have home carers – but what of the future of the ones who do not?The council's social work department's planned review of residents will almost certainly not be comprehensive enough and many could slip through the net.
Besides, circumstances change – and who will notice these changes?
Not all residents have family who can see them regularly, some have no family at all.
Who else but a warden is able to build up a relationship of trust, seeing them on a regular basis?
A warden is in a unique position to spot any changes in a resident, be they health, social or other issues. A warden is someone the resident can confide in, help them through the pain of bereavement, and keep them up to date with the many changes in today's society.
There are those who came to live in these schemes precisely because they would have the support of a warden – now this is being taken away from them. We are trying to encourage people in their later years to be independent, living in their own home. With the support and encouragement of a warden, that is surely the ideal way.
I urge SBC to think again – it is their responsibility to see that our elderly population gets the care and support it deserves.
LORRAINE CASSIDY
retired warden
Elm Park
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Weather for Selkirk
Thursday 24 May 2012
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