We, the undersigned care workers, service users, family members, and residents of Tower Hamlets, are writing in urgent concern regarding Tower Hamlets Council’s actions affecting Apasen, a long-standing community-based charity that has provided culturally sensitive care since 1984.

 

For over four decades, Apasen has supported vulnerable adults and families with safe, regulated, and community-focused care. Its workers understand local languages, cultures, disabilities, and lived realities. something that cannot be replaced by private, profit-driven providers.

Since referrals were withdrawn:

 

Care workers have lost work and income

Families face uncertainty and distress
Vulnerable residents risk disruption to essential care
Dedicated staff feel ignored and excluded from decisions affecting their livelihoods

Over the past several months, care workers and representatives have held meetings with Tower Hamlets Council, submitted formal requests, and taken part in three peaceful demonstrations to raise concerns about the loss of work and the impact on vulnerable residents.

 

Despite these efforts:

 

No meaningful action has been taken
Referrals have not been restored
Care workers remain without work and income
Repeated requests to reconsider the situation of carers have not led to change

 

In addition, care workers have engaged with local councillors, former council leaders, and community activists who showed concern and offered support. Some attempted to raise the issue and advocate for carers through appropriate channels. However, the situation has become politically sensitive, and meaningful progress has not followed.

 

This petition is not directed at individuals. It is a call for transparent action, accountability, and urgent solutions to protect carers and vulnerable residents.

 

We believe community-based BAME charities must be protected — not pushed aside — in favour of privatisation.

 

We call on Tower Hamlets Council to:

 

Restore referrals to Apasen immediately

Reverse the withdrawal of the domiciliary care contract
Protect community-based BAME care organisations
Guarantee job security for care workers
Work transparently and collaboratively with carers and communities

 

Over 4000 care workers and residents have already signed this petition offline.

This online petition is to amplify their voices and show public support.

 

Tower Hamlets must stand with its care workers -not abandon them.