Local families in Argyll and Bute heavily rely on respite and disability services for their daily needs. These services are under threat due to proposed funding cuts by the local HSCP.

The impact of these cuts would be devastating, leaving many vulnerable individuals without the necessary support they need.

According to data from the Office for National Statistics, approximately 20% of people in Argyll and Bute have a long-term health problem or disability.

This means that one-fifth of our population could potentially be affected by these cuts. We urge the HSCP to reconsider their decision, acknowledging the importance of these services for our community's wellbeing. Please sign this petition to show your support against these detrimental budget cuts.

SEE OFFICIAL LETTER BELOW:

We are writing to you as one of the families that currently receive support from Cornerstone’s Jigsaw or Clasp services, to advise that the contract to provide those services will be coming to an end on 31st March 2024.

As a family who have been receiving this service we are sorry that this will be very unwelcome and perhaps surprising news to have received.

Cornerstone and Argyll and Bute HSCP have enjoyed a long and positive partnership and it is sad and disappointing that we have been unable to find a way to continue. We recognise the real difference these services have made and the compassionate, person-centred care and support that has been provided by Cornerstone’s dedicated team of skilled colleagues. Both organisations have worked together over the past few years to try to identify both increased core and additional grant funding to meet increasing costs, but unfortunately this has not been successful, and arrangements now need to change.

Argyll and Bute HSCP can confirm that sufficient funding is in place to allow for the service to continue to be delivered until the end of March 2024.

Both organisations wholly appreciate the impact this decision will have and the key focus will now be to work with you to identify alternative supports, before the contract comes to an end. Argyll and Bute HSCP have opened a market testing exercise to try to attract interest from providers across Scotland, and will consider any expressions of interest in providing a similar service.

The social work team will contact you over the next few weeks to discuss updating your assessment and plan, to take account of this significant change in circumstance, and will work with you to identify how to best meet your needs after Cornerstone’s contract comes to an end. However, if you also wish to contact your social worker or Brian Reid with any concerns please do not hesitate to do so.

Please be assured that it is Cornerstone’s intention to maintain support for the remainder of the contract and to support any transition needs to a new care provider.