Last week I drove a mourner to the crematorium.

While waiting in the car park, mourners from the previous ceremony emerged. Amongst the group were four care workers smartly dressed in their uniforms.

It was a poignant reminder that for many carers, it’s far more than just a job. They often form a bond and closeness with their clients.

I read with some alarm (CP, 14-08-20), ‘Night care team halved in council budget cut’.

I was under the impression funding for adult social care had been ring fenced, and was protected from any cuts. Dr Carol Tozer, director of adult social care, is quoted as saying, ‘the care close to home strategy focused on promoting independence, investing in technology to meet people’s needs.’ Really? Isn’t this about finding a cheap way to abandon weak and vulnerable Islanders in their homes?

A bed that bumps you around during the night is not going to change you should that become necessary, or offer a kind word should you feel distressed.

We know mental health is an increasing issue amongst many of our elderly. I see little compassion, or humanity, in this strategy. Where is the evidence to support the notion patients prefer a bit of tech rather than a kind word and the warmth of a human face?

We know vulnerable people are all too often easily manipulate, does this technology really meet their needs both physical and emotional, were they given any choice, or is it being forced on them in an attempt to save our council a few pounds?

One can’t help but wonder if we have the right key people in place on our council, or are some more focused on promote their own career paths by jumping on the ‘tele’ tech bandwagon, at the expense of providing high-quality compassionate care for those who really need it.

Have you got a view on this, or any other subject? Why not send a letter to the editor. Send it to editor@iwcp.co.uk by noon on Tuesday. Please try and keep it under 350 words.

Read more letters to the editor HERE