IT IS said that the measure of the greatness of a society is the way it treats its most vulnerable members.

I have worked for Dorset County Council for many years watching a systematic reduction in the amounts of care available to the elderly, many of whom are in the various stages of dementia or suffering deteriorating physical health.

I have seen an elderly and confused lady told she was no longer allowed to receive day-care because she did not meet the latest set of criteria.

Her tears at being disqualified disappeared within a few weeks as she was returned to a day centre, fully qualified, by her rapidly deteriorating condition.

I have seen the elation on the faces of exhausted relatives as their loved ones are passed to the care of qualified practitioners enabling them to enjoy a few hours of rest and relaxation.

Many of these same devoted relatives now live in virtual isolation as our society’s ‘difficult cases’ are swept under an ever growing carpet.

What about the furrowed brows of loyal and hard working professionals committed to the personal care of those who find impossible the daily routines most of us take for granted?

These ‘angels of mercy’ are wondering how much longer their ‘pin money’ will be available as they faithfully continue to do a job which most of us would flee from.

How long will it be before the moguls of county hall direct that a notice be posted on the door of every day care establishment.

“It is with regret that we announce that growing old is no longer advised. If you wish to take up the alternative option please contact extension 1234 to be told where you can hire the necessary equipment”.

I understand that we are living in hard times and cuts have to be made but why must we start by making cuts, which affect those who aren’t strong enough to fight their own corner?

NAME & ADDRESS SUPPLIED, Blandford