Vital Meals on Wheels service facing collapse

THE Meals on Wheels service is “heading for collapse” unless the Government intervenes, a damning report warns.

-  Sarah O'Grady

If it does fold tens of thousands of lonely, frail or sick pensioners will struggle.

Age UK, Care England and the National Association of Care Catering, are among those calling on ministers for urgent help.

Experts fear care costs could skyrocket if the old and needy are left battling to shop, cook and feed themselves.

In 2014, two-thirds of local authorities funded Meals on Wheels in their area.

That is now 29% across the country and just 18% in England, says the Association for Public Service Excellence.