Council defends itself against claim it is a “month behind” in sending coronavirus help letters to over 70s in Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes Council is only now sending letters to those aged over 76 – but not yet the over 70s – while nearby Bedford Borough Council sent letters to the over 70s on March 18.

Conscious of a general political consensus in the city, Conservative group leader, Cllr Alex Walker (Stantonbury) was guarded in his criticism.

He praised the council for turning and organisation of over 2,000 members of staff into a “crisis communications machine “within just a few weeks”.

But he added that while being supportive of the Labour leadership, the opposition would flag up issues.

“In times of crisis, it is hard to get it all right and there have been things that have fallen through the gaps.

“We are a month behind some councils in reaching out to over the 70s vulnerable group, for example. Something we are concerned about.

“But, where there have been things missed we’ve played our role as the opposition to flag them and we will continue to do so.

“What has been pleasing to see is the constructive cross-party working, both in the council and out in the community.”

The letter being sent out to the over 76s says “we’re here to help if you need us.” and offers a “little extra support to stay safe and well while government restrictions are in place.

“If you need our help due to the current situation, call us on 01908 252398 during office hours so we can discuss how we might best do this.”

The council has already been assisting 1,500 people who are in the most vulnerable, shielded category.

The people involved in the next group, those advised to be particularly stringent in following social distancing measures, had been left without an offer of help so far.

Cllr Walker said this could mean that people might have been worried, running out of food or did not know where to turn.

A spokesperson for the council said: “All councils are making different decisions.

“Not every council has issued a letter, for instance, or done some of the other things we have, for example set up Food Bank Xtra or making prescription deliveries.”

On the question of why only those over 76, and not all the over 70s, the council spokesperson said they could be most clearly identified because they were marked as not being eligible for jury service.

“For those under 76 we only have date of birth details for some, perhaps half,” the spokesperson said.

There are some 11,000 people in Milton Keynes who are over 76 and the council wants to respond to calls for help from those older people first before expanding the help.

“By doing it in this slightly staggered way we can be sure we have the resources to help,” the spokesperson said.