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Families Fear 'Devastating' Impact of Wellington House Closure
11 Jun
Summary
- Brighton council consults on closing Wellington House day centre, saving £400,000.
- Families of 21 users fear alternative provisions are inadequate.
- Service users have attended the centre for up to 40 years.
Brighton and Hove City Council is currently consulting on plans to close the Wellington House day centre. This proposed closure aims to achieve savings of £400,000 annually.
Families of the 21 individuals who currently attend Wellington House have expressed significant distress over the potential closure. Many users have been attending the centre for decades, with some for as long as 40 years. Relatives argue that the alternative provisions being considered are insufficient to meet the complex needs of their loved ones.
Cathy Cooper highlighted that her daughter, who has multiple complex needs, would be isolated without the centre. Another family member, Tony, stated that Wellington House is a "mainstay" for his sister, Susan, who has attended for 40 years.
Concerns have also been raised about the lack of autistic accreditation and capacity in some proposed alternative providers. Families emphasize the importance of the established relationships and specialized staff knowledge at Wellington House.
Brighton and Hove City Council has assured that no final decision will be made until the 12-week consultation ends on July 7. They have pledged to ensure all 21 users will have their needs met with at least the same quality of care before any closure proceeds.
