A PETITION has been launched calling for the decision to axe a service supporting vulnerable people to be reversed.

Last week the Standard revealed One Support is due to be completely removed from the district next Friday.

Now residents have started a petition in a bid to save the service.

So far, more than 50 people have signed the online poll.

The petition said: “The service provides support for around 1,600 elderly and vulnerable residents with physical and mental health problems.

“Those who receive the support have been informed that the service will no longer be provided leaving these people with no alternative or replacement once the programme stops.

“Carers visit clients at least once a week to help them manage their day-to-day life, including organising finances to helping carry out household jobs.

“This petition is to ask for a reconsideration of the decision to end the service or to set up an alternative service for the affected clients.”

Diane Mccallum set up the petition which is directed to Essex County councillor Dick Madden, who is responsible for adults and children.

Diane, of Milton Road, Maldon, said: “I read the article in the Standard and then saw it on Facebook and I am truly concerned about the welfare of these vulnerable people.

“I know children need support and feel that elderly and vulnerable people need help as well and from the comments of some clients and their families in the paper the service is more than useful.

“People’s lives will be changes drastically as a result of the termination of this service.”

To see the petition, visit http://bit.ly/2nvgOmV