Jennyfer Spencer’s death: Questions need answers

• WE call for a public inquiry into the circumstances of Jennyfer Spencer’s death.
We are saddened and distressed to learn of the death of Jennyfer (Alex) Spencer, a former primary school teacher and catering manager, loved by many in her community (‘When you read this, I’ll be dead’, March 25).
Her untimely death appears to be the result of neglect. 
Had this happened to a child, there would rightly be an outcry, but it is just as unacceptable when the victim is a vulnerable woman with disabilities.
Ms Spencer became a wheelchair-user following a stroke; she struggled to live in an inaccessible flat for seven years. 
After Camden stopped her direct payments for the care she needed, she ended up entirely dependent on the kindness of neighbours. 
It is a testament to her character that she had many friends on the estate; she would not have survived without them for as long as she did.
It seems the council blamed her for not attending outside appointments and left her to her tragic end.
Ms Spencer knew who was to blame for her predicament and left a letter to that effect.  She made sure the truth would not be buried with her. 
We thank her for this last act of courage. 
We must now make sure that it protects others from a similar fate.
We are calling for a public inquiry into the circumstances of Jennyfer Spencer’s death.
The public has a right to know:
• Why Ms Spencer was not given accommodation to suit her disability?
• Why she was so readily dumped by housing and adult social care?
• Why her entitlement to financial support was withdrawn?
• Why she was allowed to suffer for seven years?
• Why was a woman with Ms Spencer’s history not on the council’s “at-risk” register?
• Whether council officers carried out their duty of care?
• What part did Camden’s lust for financial cuts play in deciding how much support Ms Spencer should have had?
• Will anyone responsible for Ms Spencer’s neglect be sacked?
• What else will be done to prevent such tragedies in future?
We want Camden to apologise to Jennyfer Spencer and her family.
Like Ms Spencer, many vulnerable people have had their services stopped or reduced under the cruel eligibility rules. Others were refused support or have been driven away by charges they can’t afford. 
As a result, there are many people who have contributed to the community many times over who now find themselves isolated and suffering routine neglect.
Concerned people, mostly disabled people reliant on care services, will be holding a vigil to remember Ms Spencer and demand justice on Saturday April 3 from 1pm-2pm at Waxham estate, Mansfield Road, near Gospel Oak station. All who wish to pay their respects are welcome. Call us on 020 7482 2496 or email camdencacc@googlemail.com
CAMPAIGN AGAINST CAR CHARGES (Camden)
WinVisible (women with visible and invisible disabilities)
Green Party spokesperson on disability and social care
Black Women’s Rape Action Project
The CarAf Centre