A 12-week consultation on the future of home care and meals on wheels in Suffolk started this week.

The consultation runs until January 6 next year and gives those who receive these services, their families and members of the public the opportunity to have their say.

The consultation has been designed as a result of a decision made by Suffolk County Council’s cabinet in September.

This week all the county’s home care and community meals customers will be receiving information about the consultation.

The questionnaire, along with full details about the consultation, including the consultation booklet, information about how to take part, and relevant cabinet reports are also available via the council’s website at www.suffolk.gov.uk/consultations.

Alan Murray, cabinet member for adult care, said: “It’s extremely important that we gather views on how home care and community meals services should be delivered in the future.

“We know that the current delivery models need to change in order for people to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible, and to ensure we best meet their needs and aspirations.

“We want to ensure that services are preventative, offer opportunities for choice and control, are of good quality, and value for money.

“I’d urge service users, their family and friends and anyone who is interested in the provision of these services to take the opportunity to read through the relevant information and take part in the consultation.”

Labour spokeswoman Sarah Adams urged people to have their say, adding: “We know that as soon as services are privatised the quality is cut and the price goes up.

“These are worrying times for older people.”