THE following is a copy of a letter sent to the Forest of Dean District Council.
'While it is understood that cuts have to be made in council expenditure, why do the elderly and vulnerable have to be targeted?
'We have already lost the Colliers' Court facility which was a lifeline to families with relatives suffering dementia or alzheimers.
'For years I, and my mother before me have had the reassurance of contact with warm, friendly voices on our Linkline phone. Those of us who have this safety net for emergencies do not want to be put through to an anonymous call centre, however efficient it may be.
'At times of illness or injury one needs the help of local people who know the facilities available, people whose voices we know and trust, and who treat us like friends.
'We do not want to lose the good folk on the team who ensure there is always someone to answer our call, day or night. It is painful to think of them being made redundant, especially in the present financial climate with so many in that situation already seeking other employment.
'I desperately hope this proposal to outsource will be abandoned. – Joy Simpson, Primrose Hill, Lydney.