Council Vote to Close More Day Centres

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The decision has been criticised by local politicians

Plans to close facilities for people with learning disabilities in Acton have been strongly condemned.

Learning Curve in Roslin Road is currently open five days a week - teaching a variety of skills and providing paid work experience.

The Stirling Road Centre offers training and somewhere to socialise.

In March 2011 Ealing Council closed the Albert Dane Centre in Southall.

A council spokesperson said:

''The council must find savings of £85million and is looking to find ways of delivering quality services in a more cost-effective and flexible way.

''Following a detailed consultation with customers, cabinet has decided to close both the Learning Curve and Stirling Road day centres. Our next step will be to meet with those affected, and their carers, and give advice and practical help so they can access the many existing organisations and services that already exist in the community.

''Everyone who attended both of the centres will be offered help and advice and eligible customers will also be given their own individual budgets.''

Last night (22 January) the ruling Labour Administration voted unanimously to shut the two services.

Speaking at the Cabinet meeting, Cllr David Millican, Conservative Group Leader said:

“I have visited the sites several times and met carers, staff and users of the centres. The closure of these valuable front line services is yet another example of Labour wrong priorities leading to wrong choices being made.

''The services being provided by Learning Curve keep many of these users from developing “critical” or “substantial” needs, which ends up costing the Council more in the long run.''

Councillor Millican says budget cuts should be made from the top - in management positions - to pay for services of benefit to vulnerable and disadvantaged residents.

The Conservatives plan to"call-in" the decision allowing it to be scrutinised properly.

 

 

 

23rd January 2012