A Canterbury mayor says rural support workers have been forgotten about for too long, leaving them vulnerable to rising fuel costs.

Kaikōura Mayor Craig Mackle says the rising cost of fuel has seen some dip into their own pockets to support elderly in their community.

Mr Mackle said he had heard of instances of workers paying for petrol, cleaning products and equipment out of their own pocket.

‘‘They do it because they care. I understand the Government having to cut back to get back on their feet, but this is a sector which has suffered for far too long.’’

Hurunui Mayor Marie Black said rural support workers are ‘‘gems’’ in a tough economic environment.

Support workers played a valuable role with cleaning and personal care, allowing the elderly to remain in their home, she said.

‘‘The people I know who do it are just gems.…