IT was very disappointing to read that the One Support service which provides social care to residents is to have its funding axed by Essex County Council as part of a cost cutting exercise.

It is yet another example of how the infrastructure which represents the foundations of a strong economy and a healthy nation is being dismantled.

As the screws are tightened on government spending for public purpose aims we are now witnessing even in our own district the results of policies which put ideology before people’s lives. It is morally indefensible.

The message has been constantly drummed into the public consciousness that the measure of a good government is how it manages its finances.

In terms of deficit and debt that is the wrong measure.

As a public servant the role of any government should be to maximise, through its policy choices, the well-being of a nation to create a healthy society and a balanced economy from which we can all benefit.

This requires sufficient government spending into the economy to enable resources to be used productively and sustainably and thereby increase the nation’s wealth.

On that score the Conservatives are failing the nation in every sense of the word.

The continuing cuts to public services, the on-going privatisation of the NHS and the crippling of local government are ideologically driven.

Instead of public money benefitting people through investment in the things that make society work better, it is being redistributed upwards to the few who are motivated more by profit than the concept of fairness and prosperity for all.

With a currency issuing government like ours the question is never about monetary affordability even if it is presented to the public as such.

Across the nation we are now seeing the consequences of this government’s policy and spending choices which fail to protect those in need and prevent an economy that works for all.

Prue Plumridge

London Road Maldon

Support service is a lifeline for many

THERE are 40 sheltered hosing bungalows for the elderly on this estate alone.

Each one receives a call from the One Support service.

Many of these elderly people are bungalow-bound, and rely on a call or a visit, as they go days without seeing anyone.

This vital service supports around 1,600 vulnerable people in the Maldon District.

This service is a Godsend to all, now the aged are to suffer.

All these cuts to reduce a deficit, are putting people lives at risk.

Scrapping the support service will just put more pressure on the ambulance service, as people will just call 999, who are already pushed.

V P Wiggin

Mead Way Maldon