More than lunch clubs

Published: 17 February, 2011

• YOUR Comment “Can going local save threatened centres for the elderly, February 10) says Camden Council, like Islington, might like to explore running “lunch clubs” differently as those run by organisations like Age Concern would be expected to be more expensive.

There is some confusion, however, between day resource centres run by Age Concern in Camden and Islington, and lunch clubs. The former also cater for frail older people and provide a wide range of services and activities. Higher costs are associated with the minimum levels of staffing needed for care including those with dementia. However, we also involve volunteers as well as paid staff and attract some other funding – for activities and equipment. Lunch clubs are much cheaper, especially if the council as a landlord were to waive rent. Unfortunately, Camden is “decommissioning” lunch clubs as well as resource centres and Good Neighbour Schemes. We have asked for a rethink on the plans.

GARY JONES
Chief Executive Officer, Age Concern Camden