Campaigners Say Opposition Is Growing Over Plans To Axe Wardens

Campaigners opposed to East Riding Council proposals for Sheltered Housing schemes are reporting increased opposition ahead of the consultation deadline of this Friday. 

The local authority extended the consultation period, a move that was welcomed by a number of key figures in the town.

In a statement released, Beverley Labour’s George McManus said;

“Last month East Riding Council discussed controversial proposals which would see dedicated wardens being replaced by a mobile service.”  

“They also suggested that Council properties might be sold to the private sector.” 

“We are receiving reports of mounting opposition to the Council’s proposals from across the East Riding.  Residents in Beverley, Woodmansey, Pocklington, Market and Weighton, Stamford Bridge, Newport and Bridlington have told us that they are content with the current arrangements.”

“People are convinced that the changes are being driven by financial pressures rather than a desire to improve services.”

“With waiting lists for Council properties at an all time high people can’t believe that the Council’s even considering selling council houses.”

East Riding of Yorkshire Council have said they have no plans to remove wardens from shelter housing and are looking to  create new roles and make better use of the resources they have.

When the issue was first brought to the attention of residents the council said that the changes were a result of speaking with residents who live in accommodation where a warden is present.

They added that it was  a service they ‘pay for’ and that residents have differing needs when it came to such support.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council have also dismissed claims that changes are ‘cost-cutting’ exercise or that the roles that are being adapted to save money.

Instead they insist that the changes are being made to help enhance the services that are accessed by some of the most vulnerable people in the community.

Last month residents and campaigners who are opposing the changes staged a protest outside County Hall in an attempt to get their voices heard.