Constituency MSP, Jackie Baillie, has called on the Scottish Government to work with COSLA to undertake a Scotland-wide review of social care charges in light of the 100% increase to community alarms introduced by SNP-controlled West Dunbartonshire Council this financial year.

The MSP raised the issue at Portfolio Questions this week calling on the Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Local Government to urge West Dunbartonshire Council to think again.

Concerns have been raised by Jackie Baillie in light of reports that more than 200 elderly and vulnerable people have cancelled their community alarm contracts with the local authority in this month alone due to the unbearable costs.

Jackie said:

“The 100% increase in community alarm charges for elderly and vulnerable people in West Dunbartonshire is simply unacceptable. Hundreds of people have cancelled their community alarm contracts since the increase despite their circumstances remaining unchanged.

“It is clear that residents of West Dunbartonshire are being punished by SNP-controlled West Dunbartonshire Council with their eye watering increases to social care charges.

“I have asked the Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Local Government to use her meeting with COSLA next week to highlight the ongoing issues and urge West Dunbartonshire Council’s SNP administration to think again.

“In her response the Cabinet Secretary indicated that the Council had received more funding so the question has to be asked why is the Council increasing the costs for some of the most vulnerable people in our community?”