Hundreds of pensioners who live in Croydon sheltered housing will lose the wardens they are dependent on if cabinet approves new proposals to cut the service next Monday.

Residents will instead be given a Careline button they can wear as a necklace or bracelet which, when pushed, will automatically connect their phone to the Croydon Council service, which will run 24 hours a day.

Council Leader Mike Fisher said: “Our sheltered housing officers give 37 hours of support on week days. They have done a fantastic job.

“Careline operates 24 hours a day.

“When people see they can get a quicker reponse from the council then I think they will see the benefits of the move.”

However residents do not agree. Flora Sully, 91, was the victim of a heartless conwoman who stole her jewellery and £300 before Christmas last year.

Dawn Dangerfield was found guilty at Croydon Crown Court for the theft. She stole the pensioner’s possessions after talking her way into Mrs Sully’s flat.

The 91-year-old, who lives in Bridge Place, said she feels safer knowing there is a warden on site to help her if she is suspicious about someone knocking on her door.

She said: “The warden did come up and see me after the theft and did their best for me. I lost all my jewellery and money and have had no recompense.

“We rely a lot on the wardens, it will be dreadful to lose them.”

Bill Jones, 73, who also lives on the estate said several residents will struggle with the Careline system.

He said: “There is one woman here who can’t read or write and she is quite difficult to understand.

“I don’t mind helping her read her letters but I am reluctant to handle money for her which the warden does.

“There is another resident who relocated here from a psychiatric hospital and it took them two years to get the confidence to open the door to the warden. What happens if a different person knocks on the door each time?”

Coun Fisher said: “The most vulnerable people will still get a social care package and people will be checking up on them.

“Careline will be available 365 days a year and gives out of hours service.”

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