This is really disturbing that the council can fail to help the most vulnerable and marginalised . However, in the past, it was the Left who championed such causes/issues and not opposition parties such as the Lib Dems. I feel that the left, (such as it is) in Sheffield is really neglecting its own if it does not monitor, challenge and fight on such issues. i also have to say it is not news to those who have 'invisible'illnesses like M.E and Fibromyalgia or others such as mental health problems. Services here are often non existent or deteriorating fast


from The Star


'A SCATHING report into council services for some of Sheffield's most vulnerable people has slammed a failing service with poor management and an almost total breakdown in communication. The hard-hitting independent report into Sheffield Council's Learning Disabilities Day Service has rapped council bosses for a service which lacks cash, has poor management and low morale. It said there was "an urgent need for change" to deal with the failings.

The service caters for hundreds of people, including those with complex mental and physical needs. But despite their vulnerability the report by independent consultancy Paradigm said: "Management and leadership of day services is poor and there appears to be a breakdown in communication across the service." It goes on to slate social services bosses for a service where the rights of people were "repeatedly ignored" , where there was "no evidence of a modernisation strategy" and "no evidence of a vision or coherent plan for the service." It even points out that many of the venues do not meet the Disability Discrimination Act accessibility criteria.Some services were praised - but they were few and far between. Instead in point after point the report finds failings across the service, some affecting those with severe and complex needs.

 http://www.sheffieldtoday.net/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=58&ArticleID=877081