A furious carer has accused Walsall Council of reneging on a pledge to provide support to users of an axed alarm service.

Mum-of-two Amy Wolfs was sent a letter from the authority regarding the closure of the community alarm service from February next year.

But she said she was disgusted that instead of supported transition that she and other carers were told they would get, she was having to make do with a letter that signposted her to alternative private providers and charities who may be able to provide further information.

And she was left further exasperated when the letter advised any unwanted alarms should be taken to the recycling tip.

Last month, the cash-strapped authority decided to cease providing the £1.29million funding for community alarms, with council chiefs saying there was simply no money left available for the not-statutory service.

But Mrs Wolfs said: "At a scrutiny committee meeting, a supported transition was promised but this isn't happening.

Carer Amy Wolfs, with son Mason in his pram, alongside Labour election candidate David Morgan outside the council house following the call-in meeting.
Carer Amy Wolfs, with son Mason in his pram, alongside Labour election candidate David Morgan outside the council house following the call-in meeting.

"The letter simply contained a double sided sheet of paper with various package suggestions from alternative providers and a list of four voluntary organisations that may be able to help.

"I am disgusted that the promise of support has been reneged on, and that yet again vulnerable people have been abandoned at a time of need.

"A leaflet with four charity names on and a rather complicated list of service providers and costs isn't supportive at all.

"There is no help and support for those with cognitive issues, or neurological disorders, who are unable to digest such vast info and such complicated budgeting decisions."

She added: "I don't see how the options from providers are affordable and the council's suggestion is, if you find it unaffordable, contact Citizen's Advice Bureau. It's an absurd suggestion.

"And if you don't want the equipment after February, they say just take it to the recycling centre. Quite literally throwing money in the bin.

"This is despite the equipment costing £184,810 in the last financial year alone and the fact finances are being cited as the reason for the service ending."

She added she will still be staging a protest against the cuts outside a full council meeting on January 7.

A spokesman for Walsall Council said: "The letters give clear advice about a number of areas and also detail information sharing events with alternative providers.

"It finishes by giving the details of the Community Alarm Service Helpline (01922 653644). Anyone that requires support, or has any concerns should contact the helpline number.

"The suggestion that people can access Citizens Advice is simply to ensure where people have concerns about affordability, they can access income maximisation advice and support.

"Much of the equipment is dated, and once used the resale value is minimal.

"Some alternative providers may be able to connect to the existing equipment, in which case there is no need to change it or remove it.

"However, where an individual cannot use their existing equipment, or if they no longer want it – appropriate recycling is the best option."