There has been a heated exchange between voluntary organisations that look after vulnerable Islanders and the Isle of Wight Council.

A meeting to discuss the council's budget proposals has been held at the Riverside Centre.

A number of organisations could be affected, including the Riverside Centre and Stoneham Housing. The Supporting People Programme, which helps vulnerable Islanders keep their independence, will be cut by nearly £3m.

Meanwhile, the Island's Refuge and Domestic Abuse Service will lose its floating support workers if the plans get the go-ahead. The organisation, New Horizons,  which helps 124 people with issues including health, housing and legal services would close under the proposals.

But the council says it has very difficult decisions to make and further discussions will be held with the voluntary sector. In a stark admission, Chief Executive, Steve Beynon, told the packed meeting that he couldn't guarantee that everyone who gets support at the moment will continue to receive it in the future. But he added that spending on adult social care is actually increasing by £2m. He also talked of the need for a culture of change and gave assurances that there will still be organisations that receive a core grant from the council. He added that the voluntary sector is essential for quality of life on the Island.

The cuts are due to be discussed by the Isle of Wight Council's Cabinet on Tuesday, and a final decision will be made on 24 February.

You can listen to highlights from the meeting by clicking above. Apologies for poor sound quality on some of the recording.

Image: IW Council Chief Excutive, Steve Beynon, addresses the packed meeting at the Riverside Centre

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