The GSD says it has noted the Government’s reply to their recent statement on Home Support and Domiciliary Care Service issues affected by LifeCome Care.

A statement from the GSD follows below:

The Government's defensiveness about the critical issues facing Gibraltar’s Home Support and  Domiciliary Care Services underscores a discomfort with accountability on these issues. The GSD will  continue to hold the Government to account with steadfast resolve. 

Despite Government attempts to downplay the severity of this situation, the reality is stark: significant  problems have arisen due to the Government’s failure to implement effective mechanisms in a timely  manner. This lack of preparedness has led to serious disruption for service users and their families.  Rather than accepting responsibility and proactively working on solutions, the Government has  responded with excuses, neglecting the very concerns we have repeatedly raised in Parliament. 

In response to the Government’s latest statement, Shadow Minister for Care, Atrish Sanchez,  emphasized: “My colleagues and I have consistently flagged these problems and questioned the  Government’s readiness. Instead of taking the necessary steps to prevent this crisis, the  Government has chosen to deflect blame, dismissing the situation as ‘mere teething issues.’ The  Government even accuses the GSD of exaggerating the problem, yet we need only point to Unite  the Union’s press release from the 6th of November, which warns of ongoing issues with the  transfer of Domiciliary Care and Home Support workers from ADA and Meddoc to Lifecome  Care, and the potential for a demonstration over unresolved issues impacting workers. We  understand that after urgent talks, this is thankfully, not going ahead. Albeit this is just the  latest in a string of unresolved challenges that are disrupting lives and placing an emotional  burden on service users, carers, and families alike. To downplay this distress is not only  dismissive but unacceptable.” 

The GSD stands firm in our urgent call for immediate Government intervention to protect service  users, their families, and the employees who deliver essential care. We renew our demand for swift  action to prevent further escalation and restore stability to these vital services. 

Our sincere hope is that these issues are resolved quickly and effectively, allowing Home Support and  Domiciliary Care Services to function as promised, providing stability, support, and peace of mind to  our community and those who most need it. The GSD will not waver in holding the Government  accountable to ensure that these crucial services meet the needs of our community.