The GSD has expressed “deep concern” over what it calls the increasing reports of “ongoing disruptions in the provision of Domiciliary Care and Home Support services through the Care Agency.”

A statement continued: “Elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and others in need of these essential services are facing unacceptable interruptions to the care they rely on daily.

“In June, His Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar announced the awarding of a £3,836,573.28 contract to Lifecome Care Limited to deliver these services, assuring the public this would "result in better continuity of care" and that there would be a "seamless transfer of employees," with no disruptions to service delivery or employment. However, several months on, it is evident these assurances have not been realized.

“Feedback from service users, their families, and employees presents a concerning reality: one characterized by confusion, instability, and, most alarmingly, a breakdown in the continuity of care vital to the well-being of those affected. Families are understandably anxious, and employees are facing issues with disorganized shift rosters, contracts, and other matters directly impacting continuity of care and service delivery. It is clear the Government’s promised seamless transition has fallen short.”

Shadow Minister for Care, Atrish Sanchez, emphasized the seriousness of the situation: "This is not merely a matter of contracts or administrative processes—this is about people’s lives. Those who rely on these services deserve much more than what they are currently receiving. These are individuals, and their daily lives are being disrupted. When the Government fails to manage such a critical transition effectively, it is those who need and rely on these services the most who bear the consequences. The Government’s assurances of a smooth handover have not been met, and the scope of the ongoing issues is both troubling and unacceptable. The Government must act immediately to rectify this situation."

A statement continued: "The GSD also notes the recent Government press release, which appears to have been issued in response to widespread public concern on social media. This reactive approach is symptomatic of a Government that only seems to address issues after public outcry, despite these problems having persisted for months. These challenges had already been highlighted to the Government, and it would have been prudent for the responsible Minister to ensure mechanisms were in place to avoid these prolonged ‘teething issues’ affecting such vital services.

“In response to concerns about employee vetting, the Government's press release does not clearly address whether all employees are being internationally vetted as part of Lifecome Care Limited's contractual obligations with His Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar.

“The GSD urges the Government to clarify this issue to alleviate public concerns. The GSD calls on the Government to take swift and decisive action to address the ongoing disruptions and restore stability to Domiciliary Care and Home Support services. The provision of care to our elderly and the most vulnerable members of our community must be prioritized with the highest level of urgency and professionalism. Delays and disruptions in these critical services are simply unacceptable. The GSD further urges the Government to clarify its long-term strategy for these essential services and address the growing concerns within the community, ensuring that care is delivered consistently, effectively, and without further disruption.”