The county council says the case for a £173m investment "no longer makes good financial sense".

The Bristol-based charity which runs the scheme said it has brought "so much joy" to residents.

Surrey County Council and Age UK are holding a free event to provide information on funding support.

A former director at the charity Age NI, Siobhan Casey, has been appointed the new Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.

A council says the scheme, which is run by charity Age UK, is an "invaluable asset" to Teesside.

The council leader said the authority needs to look at plans to deliver services "more efficiently".

Carers say more support is needed as demands for residential care may increase by 50% by 2038.

Opposition leaders say money for elections should be used to save elderly and disabled day centres.