My Freedom of Information survey of local councils has revealed that 220,000 fewer people are receiving meals on wheels in England now compared to 2010 – that’s a fall of 63 per cent. Those still receiving meals are paying on average £237 more a year – an increase of 22 per cent.

Having a decent meal and contact with someone at least once a day is a lifeline for many elderly people. Removing this support isn’t good for them and it’s a false economy too if they struggle to cope and their health suffers and they end up having to go into hospital or a care home. I’m campaigning to end the false divide between social care services and the NHS because both are essential to keeping elderly people well and living independently in their own homes.

You can read coverage of this story on the BBC and in the Telegraph, Guardian and Daily Mail.