A DISABLED man has voiced concerns about new care services to people in their homes.

He, like many others in Huddersfield, is now expected to get help from agency staff instead of Kirklees Council carers.

Newsome resident Grahame Schofield, 52, who receives twice daily carers, has opposed the transfer of his care to agency home care services.

Following a recent tender process Kirklees Council has now handed over more care contracts, meaning it provides only about 15% of its own care.

But this means those with long-term care needs will be visited by home care services and not council employees.

Mr Schofield, who suffers from cerebral palsy, said: “I was told only a week beforehand my care was due to be handed over to an agency.

“I have had meetings with the council and for now I am allowed to keep Kirklees carers.

“But there are other people who are not as vocal as me that haven’t had a choice in who provides their care.”

Mr Schofield said he has had agency carers before, many years ago, and said it ‘wasn’t for him’ – referring to the quality of care.

He continued: “These are personal tasks which are being carried out and it is important that you build up a rapport with your care team.

“I don’t think agency staff will have the same standards and continuity for service users.”

A spokesman for Kirklees Council said: “We have been working with independent home care organisations who deliver services on our behalf for over 10 years, this is not new to the council.

“Over 85% of the home care services we currently deliver are provided by independent home care providers, the remaining number of people are supported by our reablement services.

“Reablement services support everyone who is referred for support at home, including those discharged from hospital or recovering from an accident or illness.

“They are provided with support for up to six weeks, so they can become as independent as possible.

“Our staff work alongside physiotherapists and occupational therapists to support people to relearn daily living skills and to regain abilities and confidence, in their own home. They also work with independent home care organisations to ensure a smooth transition, should the person need home care services for a longer period of time.”

The council confirmed no consultation had taken place and it would work with the service users to help with a transition.