City goes to supermarkets for cheap deal on OAP shopping

Published on Tuesday 20 May 2008 10:21

PENSIONERS could see home shopping restored under plans for a partnership between the city council and some of the country's biggest retailers.

The local authority has written to five leading supermarkets in a bid to tap into their expertise in the hope of delivering the service on the cheap. Prior to home shopping being axed, it was costing the council 23 per delivery.

Tesco, one of the chains contacted by the council, manages it for just 3.99. Meanwhile, Sainsbury's accepts orders over the phone, ideal for pensioners who do not have internet access.

Councillor Paul Edie, the city's health and social care director, has written to both, as well as Morrisons, Asda and the Co-op.

He said: "I've fired off a letter to the chief executives of each of them to see what is possible.

"It was costing 23 a delivery, which is why the previous administration took the decision to cut it in 2006.

"23 a time was ludicrous, which was why we did not complain when the previous administration cut it.

"Officers tried to hatch a deal with Somerfield, but without success, which is why it petered out in November."

He added: "We are just testing the water. Whatever happens it will have to be cost-effective for both sides.

"One problem is that if we end up looking at shopping online, then clients will have to have a computer, which a lot of elderly people don't have.

"I have contacted the chief executives of these organisations to see what is possible. If they come back with a suggestion that is affordable and works, then I am always looking to make improvements to the service."

Some of the shopping requirements of elderly and vulnerable people in the most need have passed over to home help staff.

The council is keen to see home helpers continue to provide some shopping, but bringing in a supermarket partner would free up more of their time for looking after people in their homes.

However, it is believed around 220 people with lesser problems, who previously received help with their shopping, have been left to fend for themselves.

Councillor Lesley Hinds called on the health and social care committee to look into teaming up with a supermarket in December.

Cllr Hinds, Labour's health and social care spokeswoman, said today: "The line on supermarkets has been pushed by me.

"All these supermarkets make big profits, surely one would be prepared to provide a service and work alongside the council.

"They could at least come into discussions about how a shopping service could be delivered."

The UK's biggest supermarket chain, Tesco, said it was open to discussing possibilities with the city council. A spokesman said: "We are part of the fabric of the community and will do what we can. We will look at the letter and see what is being proposed."

Weblinks:

Edinburgh City Council

Tesco

Sainsburys