Earlier this month, Your Local Guardian was told that volunteers delivering the Meals on Wheels service would now be charged £25 for their annual Christmas dinner, which has historically been provided at no cost as a token of appreciation.
The reports suggested that the council was effectively asking unpaid volunteers to pay for the one perk they received for their service.
But Sutton Older People’s Welfare Committee (SOPWC) has now clarified that the Christmas lunch is still free for all volunteers.
SOPWC explained that the £25 charge refers to a separate fundraising gala, which is being organised to raise money for a new minibus for the day centre they also operate.
Volunteers continue to be recognised and supported by the council, with the Christmas lunch remaining a longstanding annual thank-you for their commitment.
A spokesperson for Sutton Council said: “Sutton Older People’s Welfare Committee (SOPWC) have confirmed that the Meals on Wheels volunteer Christmas lunch is happening and is at zero cost to the volunteers.
“SOPWC have explained that they are running a separate fundraising gala with tickets costing £25.
“This is to raise money for a new minibus for the day centre that they also operate.”
