Carers protest cuts impacting support services for neurodivergent people in Aberdeenshire, citing broken rules and a lack of consultation.
Aberdeenshire Council made some big cuts in February. These cuts total £19 million. Day services for learning disabilities, activity hubs for older people and social care transport will all suffer.
The council stopped doing ADHD and autism assessments. They want a cheaper way to assess people.
Lynne Keith’s son, Jay, has autism and uses learning disability day services. The daily cost went up a lot, jumping from £48.55 to £148.05. Lynne is unsure if Jay can continue attending these programs, but they help him a lot.
He gets support and does activities, including visits to Fraserburgh Football Club and community crafting projects. She wrote a letter to her local MP, stating that these services give essential support, social time, and chances to grow.
Lynne thinks the cuts will be awful, not just for those who need the services, but also for families, carers, and the community. These services provide routine, help with structure and belonging, and families need the support for their own lives.
Many unpaid family members struggle. They balance work and giving care every day.
William Rae leads a disability group. He said the cuts news surprised him totally and hurts vulnerable people the most, as they do not have a strong voice in society.
He does not get why assessments stopped. Lots of people now feel lost, and it is upsetting for everyone he has talked to. Mental health will surely suffer, which will impact NHS Grampian too.
William feels there is a power imbalance where politicians dismiss the people who need help. Action is needed, and this situation feels unfair.
Lynne noted the council broke their rules, she claims, as they did not follow the Carers Act. She says no one was informed in advance, and nobody has a carer support plan. She described the situation as a “total shambles.”
Politicians from two parties criticized the council, which is led by Conservatives and Liberal Democrats.
Seamus Logan, an MP, feels “extremely disappointed.” He contacted council and NHS leaders to ask for more funding. He thinks this will cause distress.
The cuts hurt the service users and the dedicated staff who help them. Stopping assessments is a mistake because it prevents diagnoses and treatment, which will cost more in the long run, he stated.
Maggie Chapman, a Green MSP, also spoke against the cuts. She stated that getting diagnosed matters for people with ADHD or autism because it helps them get support at work and home.
Stopping this service is not okay. It is unfair if people must fight for their needs. She says councils need new ways to get funds and council tax rules may need changed.
Council people say inflation caused the cuts. More people need services these days.
Dr. John Tomlinson said this is the toughest time ever financially. The board made hard choices that have consequences across Aberdeenshire.
The board is doing reviews. They will talk to carers and service users and will have important meetings this summer to discuss savings.