Council cooking on gas (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Council cooking on gas

February 18, 2009 12:00 AM

Leeds City Council is due to extend a seven day hot meal pilot to residents receiving help in their homes.

Recognising that many residents in Leeds depend on others for home help and assistance, the council is to extend an improved service this year.

The pilot started in 2007 in North West Leeds, but the council has now confirmed that the budget is in place to extend citywide, hopefully by 2010. The pilot proved a great success when trialled and the service was incredibly popular with residents.

It will provide hot meals seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Councillor Richard Brett (Lib Dem, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill), Joint Leader of Council and Executive Member responsible for Commercial Services said:

"In these difficult times it is important the council does it all can to help the needy residents of Leeds. Whilst keeping the council tax increase at a record low we have been able to provide this much needed service.

"Having a prepared hot meal delivered is a life line for many people. The fact that we have been able to do more is testament to our commitment to residents citywide. Hopefully these services will allow elderly residents to keep their independence and carry on living in their own homes."

Councillor Peter Harrand (Conservative, Alwoodley) Executive Member for Adult Social Care added:

"I'm delighted that older people across Leeds will now benefit from this. The pilot showed people appreciate receiving hot meals seven days a week rather than five. The food also tastes better as it is cooked on route to the customer rather than in a central kitchen. This is an excellent way of providing tasty, nourishing meals to help older people stay healthy and independent, living in their own homes."