SIR – How refreshing to read your interview with the chief executive of Worcestershire County Council, Paul Robinson (Worcester News, 23 April) – particularly his view that the way we, as a society, care for our elderly, has to change.

The WEP have called for a new way of thinking about social care. Shamefully, the main political parties don’t seem to have any kind of plan of tackling this issue, affecting so many Worcester families. At local level, we see the same inertia and lack of imagination.

Our families, friends and neighbours are paying the price for this political failure to provide proper care. Despite the heroic efforts of carers, others – predominantly women – to fill the gaps left by spending cuts.

Social care is the responsibility of the county council, but I think all politicians should acknowledge we are reaching crisis point.

We need to find a solution that values the contribution our elderly citizens have made to this country, respects their dignity and recognises the army of unpaid carers who are still, largely invisible.

Unpaid carers are described as – economically inactive – a slap in the face of these dedicated workers. I want to be a voice for them, and all those affected by the social care crisis.

Leisa Taylor

WEP candidate, Bedwardine ward