Southend Labour Party

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Labour opposes Meals on Wheels price hike

Mike Royston, former Labour councillor and local election candidate for St Lukes ward, is outraged at the Conservative controlled council's proposal to withdraw its subsidy for Meals on Wheels, which will create a price rise of over 40% for the price of a typical meal.

Mike Royston said, "The price of a meal is set to rise from £3.50 to £5.00. This massive 42% price increase is hard to swallow and totally unacceptable. It will place a financial burden on residents who rely on this essential service, and create extra stress for those finding it hard to make ends meet during these difficult economic times.

As far as I am aware, the council has not even carried out any consultation with the providers or users of Meals on Wheels. This is an outrage."

It is a concern shared by Anne Jones, Labour candidate for Kursaal ward, who said, "For some people Meals on Wheels is the only hot meal of the day. The WRVS volunteers do a sterling job delivering meals, whatever the weather, and have been a lifeline for people who cannot leave their homes during the recent snow. Also, it can be their only contact with the outside world."

Mike Royston added, "We implore Southend Council to continue its support for Meals on Wheels and have started an online petition.  Residents are also welcome to contact me with their concerns by writing to me at 268 Sutton Road, Southend."