Council responds to concerns over future of Carelink service 

High Peak Borough Council has responded to concerns about the future of its Carelink service after reports emerged that the scheme could face closure. 

On Friday 5th June, the Glossop Chronicle learnt that questions had been raised about the future of the service, which provides 24-hour emergency support to elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents across the borough. 

Carelink enables people to remain independent in their own homes through a personal alarm system connected to trained staff who can respond in an emergency. The service provides peace of mind to users and their families, with customers paying a weekly charge for the support they receive. 

The reports prompted questions about what would happen to existing customers if the service were to close, what alternative support arrangements might be available, and whether any proposals would be subject to public consultation. Concerns were also raised about the potential impact on staff and the possibility of job losses. 

High Peak Borough Council have now issued a response. Executive Councillor for Housing, Fiona Sloman, said: 

“The Council is considering how best to provide the services currently offered by Carelink to our valued customers in the future. No decisions have yet been taken and our customers and staff remain our priority as we undertake this process. 

“We will, of course, be consulting them as part of the service review and a report will then be considered by councillors. In the meantime, services will continue as usual.” 

Following the publication of the story last week, a number of service users, family members and local residents expressed their dismay on social media, including Councillor Adie Hopkinson who said: 

"This news concerns me, however the Leadership at High Peak Borough Council have put this in 'Part 2' of committee meetings, meaning that I'm not allowed to discuss the content of those meetings. 

"Carelink is a vital community service, and I strongly believe any discussions on the service should be discussed by all elected councillors in the High Peak and not just a small percentage." 

County Councillor Jean Wharmby also voiced concerns saying: 

"I am really upset and will be annoyed if this happens. This is a lifeline to many people and gives families peace of mind that their loved ones are safe. 

"I have recommended and supported this scheme for many years. The staff that support these residents are fantastic - my father-in-law used Carelink for many years and it helped him keep independent and stay safe in his own home. 

"This should be out in the public domain. The residents that use this system should have been notified and if it closes alternative arrangements should be made." 

A resident who depends on the service for her elderly father said: 

“That’s bad news. It has been an absolute life saver to us over the last few months as Dad has fallen multiple times in the house and Carelink have been able to alert us or in some cases call for medical assistance. 

“It would be a very sad day for us if it closed as I’m sure it would for a lot of elderly residents who rely on it.”