‘Saving Social Care’ – Green Party discussion in Stroud to feature Bernie Sanders’ brother Larry

But now Larry Sanders, brother of socialist US Senator Bernie, is visiting Stroud to discuss an issue close to his own heart – social care.

As the Green Party of England and Wales’ health spokesperson, a county councillor and a trained social worker, he will be leading a discussion on what can be done in Gloucestershire to improve social care.

As part of a visit to the Five Valleys to support of the Green’s county council campaign, Mr Sanders will be joining candidates at the Lansdown Hall in Stroud on Thursday April 6 at 7.30pm.

Also on the panel will be former social worker Eva Ward, the Green’s candidate to replace Sarah Lunnon in Stroud Central.

She will be joined by music therapist Rachel Smith, who is standing in Minchinhampton and community campaigner Alan Mossman, who is challenging the Conservative stronghold of Bisley and Painswick.

Eva said: “Social care, and how we manage to deliver a decent service for everyone who needs it, is a key issue for the Green Party.

“Many people require support during various stages in their lives so I welcome a discussion about how we can join up health and social care and what we can do locally to improve the current situation.”

“Social care is an extremely pressing issue in the county, and without new ideas and funding it will only get worse,” said Alan.

“A recent report showed that 95 councils have had adult home care contracts cancelled by private suppliers because of the costs involved.

“In Gloucestershire the collapse of home care company Cleeve Link has put the care of hundreds of vulnerable people at risk. We cannot go on with a system that is struggling to survive."

Rachel added: “In my day job I see the problems that the social care cuts have caused and the impact it has on the most vulnerable sections of our society. We believe there is a better way to support people than the current approach."