REGARDING the proposed closure of care homes run by Lancashire County Council, this policy change is taking place when more elderly people are living longer and requiring care.

We need to seriously consider the age profile of the population, say, 10 years ago, at present and what it is projected for in 10 years' time. Bear in mind that, over the next 20 years, earlier 'baby boom' years will affect the age profile.

Will there be a shortage of places in care homes if we fail to take this into account now?

It is clear that there needs to be changes to the way elderly citizens are cared for. But few accept that the way forward is to inflict mass upheaval on vulnerable people.

The county council must ensure that disruption is minimised and private sector standards are closely monitored and that home support means a wide variety of help is available.

The county council must think long and hard before it implements such radical proposals. Services have to be economically efficient, but it is imperative that decisions are not driven by any need for short-term savings.

The concept of people remaining in their own homes is admirable, but it is not always possible because of failing health.

Care in the community for our ageing populations is what the county consultation ought to be about, rather than a narrow discussion on care homes.

A wide debate would ensure that all agencies, including the Government, are on board and we ought to be debating, if not demanding, adequate resources to deal with this issue.

The lives of our parents and grandparents are too important to be merely a matter of pounds and pence.

We must continue the campaign, not only for those currently in care homes, but to ensure that, in future, people have the fullest choice of where they wish to reside in their old age.

COUN COUNCILLOR GEORGE SLYNN, Haydock Square, Great Harwood.