Conservatives criticise Carelink closure update 

High Peak Conservatives have issued a statement criticising the handling of the closure of the Carelink service, following High Peak Borough Council’s latest update on alternative provision for customers.  

The council has said it has identified two companies - Medequip Connect and Derbyshire Light Medical - offering similar falls and emergency care response services across the High Peak.  

It is now contacting Carelink customers and their supporters with details of the alternative providers and encouraging them to begin making arrangements for their future care needs.  

The council has previously said the decision to close Carelink was taken due to safeguarding issues due to staffing levels, and has stressed that the service will continue for customers until they have arranged new provision or the service closes, whichever is sooner.  

Cllr Adie Hopkinson, who represents Old Glossop and is the newly appointed leader of High Peak Conservatives, has now responded with the following statement:  

“High Peak’s Conservative councillors have always had serious concerns regarding the handling of the closure of this vital service.  

A recent press release from the High Peak MP Jon Pearce, claiming that he will “continue to hold the Council to account and press for answers” has raised eyebrows, as the very councillors responsible for the closure decision are employed in the MP’s office.  

Conservative councillors were not made aware of the proposals by the leadership of the council until it was too late to put forward alternatives. The claim that staff retention and recruitment is the sole cause of the closure is disputed by several witnesses who have contacted us with their accounts.  

At the time the decision to close the Carelink service was taken, there was no alternative provision in place. There has been a complete lack of preparation for the closure, and alternative service providers should have been sought prior to the final decision and before service users were alerted. Instead, vulnerable users have been caused unnecessary alarm and worry, with claims that some needed medication.  

Letters have been sent from HPBC to service users, including some who have dementia, instead of their carers. Some are incapable of dealing with the letter, which has caused added distress.  

Understandably, service users are extremely worried about having to seek out a new provider for their service and at a higher cost.  

We are also extremely disappointed to hear now that the letters sent to users, giving details of an alternative provider, Derbyshire Light Medical, contains an incorrect phone number.  

The majority of service users are elderly people who rely heavily on this service, and the added stress would not have occurred if the proposed closure had been properly managed.”  

The council has said it is working to support customers through the transition and has encouraged anyone who needs help or more information to contact the Carelink team.  

Executive Councillor for Housing Fiona Sloman previously said: “The decision to close Carelink was far from easy and was taken due to safeguarding issues. Our Carelink customers have always been our priority and they remain so as we work towards ending the service.”  

High Peak Borough Council and High Peak MP Jon Pearce have been contacted for comment.