​Group aims to unite resistance to austerity in Glasgow

A new group has been set up to fight cuts to care services in Glasgow.

It aims to unite the resistance to cutbacks which could have drastic implications for some of society's most vulnerable.

The group, called Glasgow Care Crisis (GCC), will hold a conference on 31 January to plot a course for its campaign.

Among those attending will be members and service users of the Glasgow Association of Mental Health (GAMH) charity – which is fighting swingeing cuts which could see it close.

A spokesperson for the group said: “Glasgow Care Crisis is an umbrella organisation of all those who are being impacted by these attacks and who are now resisting the closure of mental health, learning difficulties centres and care services.

These cuts are irresponsible because they put vulnerable people with serious mental health problems under increasing stress and increased risk

“The cuts to care services are not smart or fair, because they target vital services and they will only put greater pressure on other services which are already under pressure and lead to higher spending down the line.

“These cuts are also very irresponsible because they immediately put vulnerable people with serious mental health problems under increasing stress and increased risk.

“The recent attack on GAMH where Glasgow City Council voted to cut 40% of its budget is the latest example of the escalating attacks on the disabled and implementation of drastic austerity measures.

“We urge all Glaswegians, and people living and working in and beyond Glasgow, to rally to support this important cause.”

The conference takes place in trade union Unison's Glasgow city branch offices at 84 Bell Street on Saturday, 31 January, starting at 11.30am. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.

Speakers will include service users, carers and trade unionists from a wide range of care services.