Council chiefs have also upset many of the thousands of residents across the city who receive care at home.

They have announced cuts to the choice of private companies that elderly residents and others with mental or physical disabilities get care services from.

In letters to those affected, the city council insists the level of care and "financial contributions" for the service will be unchanged.

But many residents are upset and confused by the upheaval, which for many will mean new carers coming into their lives.

Previously, 20 organisations provided "domiciliary care services" across the city.

Under a shake-up from November, the city will be split into seven "zones" and those needing home care will be allocated one of five providers who successfully bid for the lucrative contracts.

It is understood the bids were selected based on 40 per cent price and 60 per cent quality, meaning some smaller local care providers have been axed.