Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has called on Wales’ Older People’s Commissioner to take action to prevent the “extortionate” proposed rise in the cost of telecare services in Conwy county.

Conwy County Council has informed Conwy subscribers that it plans to increase the annual cost of its telecare service from £182 to £310.25 from September 1st. The charges in other parts of North Wales are; Anglesey £223.60; Denbighshire £204; Flintshire £137.28; Gwynedd £269.88; and Wrexham £293.80.

The 70% rise would see residents in Conwy paying the highest telecare charges in the Wales.

Last week, Darren called on Conwy County Council to scrap the planned increase and has since written to Wales’ Older People’s Commissioner, Heléna Herklots, urging her to take action to prevent the rise.

His letter states:

“I am very concerned about this significant rise in the costs of telecare services for people in Conwy County Borough Council, many of whom are older people who are vulnerable. 

“I would be grateful if you could consider what action you may be able to take as Wales' Older People's Commissioner to prevent these increases being implemented, especially given the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act's requirement for local authorities to have due regard to the Rights of Older Persons and given the failure to consult with them about this change.”

In a response received today, the Older People’s Commissioner, said the increase “looks very concerning” and promised Darren her “team will look into this and I will be back in touch in the next few days”.

Commenting, Darren said:

"This proposed rise is extortionate and will put a huge financial strain on many elderly residents in the county. It seems from the response I have received today from the Older People’s Commissioner that she shares my concerns. I welcome her prompt response and promise to investigate the matter further.

“It is grossly unfair that residents benefitting from telecare services in Conwy would be forced to pay substantially more than those in other parts of North Wales. This increase needs to be stopped and I very much hope that the Older People’s Commissioner can take action to do just that.”