A PROFESSIONAL has put her family's financial security at risk by quitting her job to look after her elderly Mother-in-law, after Redbridge Council scrapped her free care.

Kelly Rumsey,37, of Roxwell Road, Woodford Green, was this week forced to leave a well-paid job as a PA to care for her husband's 82-year-old mother Edna, who has been slapped with a £5,000 bill for home help that was previously free.

Edna, who suffers with heart problems and walks with a frame, is also being charged £80-a-week for two visits to Elderberries Day Centre in Broadmead Road, which she used to enjoy free of charge.

The former cleaner and a bus conductor paid for her care with Pension Credits for years, but has now been told that they will no longer be accepted by the council.

Kelly Rumsey said: "I do all Edna's washing, clean the house and give her tablets every day.

"With the carers here it takes that bit of strain off me and my husband but we can't afford it any more."

"I would like to go back to work but without the carers I won't be able to, which will mean I won't get a wage and I'll get behind with my own bills."

She added: "Edna was never informed that she had to start paying for her carers or the reason why, which I think is an absolute disgrace.

"I really don't know how they expect an 82-year-old lady who has worked all her life to now pay a bill for over £5,000.

"I am appalled at how Redbridge Council works."

The Rumsey's are appealing against the charges which date back to summer last year.

Redbridge Adult Social Care Services are currently investigating Edna Rumsey's enquiry but said there has been no change to the Council's policy.

A spokeswoman added: "Individuals are financially reviewed and where there is a change of circumstances the contribution may change which has been the case here.

"Mrs Rumsey and her family have been in communication with the Council regarding her support since 2007.

"At all times service users, their carers and families are kept informed of these changes and support is offered including home visits, assistance with the forms and agreement on methods of payment.

"Mrs Rumsey and her family are no exception to this support and we can confirm they have been informed of the changes and the reasons why."