Islington denies privatisation claim

Islington Council has denied claims from trade union Unison that it has decided to privatise its in-house home care service to save money.

The north London council said the issue was still up for debate, after its Unison branch reported it was certain to transfer the service to an independent sector provider in an attempt to save £200,000.

In a letter to councillors, Unison assistant branch secretary Mike Calvert attacked the plan, saying it would not save money, would reduce quality and was a fait accompli.

However, executive member for adult social services John Gilbert said: “It is still early days and we are looking at all the options in order to provide the best service possible.”

He promised to consult staff, users and unions.