By Alan Richardson

THE WRVS and Perth and Kinross Council yesterday tried to ease growing fears for meals on wheels users as they face the end of the vital service.

The council is tendering for a new scheme to replace the long-running service but has faced a furious backlash from people who see the system as a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable members of society.

Although a consultation is under way it is widely expected meals on wheels will be replaced by a frozen meals service, leading to fears the food will not be as healthy and social contact will be minimised.

But the WRVS said it is now working with the council to examine a “befriending service” to run alongside any new scheme.

It would see WRVS volunteers maintain regular visits to older people who need contact and support, and allow the WRVS to reach many more older people than it currently does, according to spokesman Andrew Jackson.

He said, “The WRVS continues to enjoy a productive working relationship with Perth and Kinross Council, and we are currently in discussion with them as to how we can jointly develop other high-quality services, such as befriending, for older people in this part of Scotland.

“These services have the potential to reach not only those people in receipt of meals on wheels but many more besides.”

Council housing and health committee convener Peter Barrett said, “The new befriending service we are looking at in partnership with the WRVS shows we are committed to looking at innovative ways to improve the lives of older people.

“The new service could allow the WRVS to reach a lot more people than they can at the moment. We would never abandon our older people in their own homes.

“We are drawing on the experience and lessons learned by the nine other local authorities in Scotland who have already moved to this new community meals service.

“In most cases people are well able to heat their meals for themselves, but assistance is provided with specially designed simple-to-operate microwaves, table-top freezers and, for those who need it, help to get their meal ready,” the councillor said.

“Full assessments will be carried out, and people will receive assistance if they require it. No one will be left to struggle alone.”

The vice-convener, Councillor Alasdair Wylie, added, “I understand that change can often cause some concern and I can give a categoric assurance that we will fully support all of our older residents throughout the process.

“I am sure the proposals can improve lives. If I wasn’t confident of that, the council would not be considering these plans.”