THE death of a pensioner at a sheltered housing scheme has prompted residents to call for the return of weekend checks by wardens.

Residents at Stopford Court flats on Sparth Road, Clayton le Moors. receive daily calls from wardens Monday to Friday but the weekend visits were ended about two years ago.

On Monday a 67-year-old man was found dead at the flats causing residents to say that they thought the number of calls by wardens should be increased.

But the Anchor Trust said that the man who had passed away had specifically asked wardens not to check him too regularly.

A spokesperson for the scheme said the recent tragedy was a result of the man in question wishing “to retain a high degree of independence” and had no relation to the decision to end weekend checks.

She added: “This tenant informed the scheme manager that he did not want morning calls and signed a disclaimer to this effect.

“As he did not receive visits from friends or family, or care services from outside the scheme, the scheme manager suggested that he should have a morning call, at least weekly if not daily.

“On Monday she did not receive a response, from his intercom so took prompt action and entered the apartment using a master key. She contacted the ambulance service immediately.”

Residents pay a £92 service charge for the warden service, heating and laundry.

The residents, who have three emergency cords located in their bedroom, bathroom and living room, fear getting into difficulties after 9am on a Friday, as being within reach of a cord could be their only hope.

One man, who asked not to be named, said: “We still pay the same service charge as before and I think it’s disgusting they wash their hands of us every Friday night. It’s two days when someone could be lying there, needing help.”

Valerie Culican of Blackburn's Help the Aged said: "No checks over the weekend could mean someone needing help for two days. Sheltered housing is a good idea because it allows older people to keep their independence, but residents have to have options as well. We would also urge neighbours to keep an eye out for each other, as that is the best way to get the support they need."