Fears that review may close lifeline service

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Friday, January 27, 2012
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Isle of Thanet Gazette

USERS of Birchington's day care centre fear a county council review of services could see their "lifeline" shut.

Kent County Council has written to carers and clients of the Minnis Day Centre inviting views on "future provision".

  1. CONCERN:  Chris and Sue Godby say Minnis Day Centre provides a vital lifeline for people in Thanet  GIPM20120125-I-1_C

    CONCERN: Chris and Sue Godby say Minnis Day Centre provides a vital lifeline for people in Thanet GIPM20120125-I-1_C

Sue and Chris Godby have been regulars at the centre since Mr Gadby suffered a stroke in 2010.

Mrs Godby said: "We are extremely concerned about the reduction or removal of the excellent services provided at the Minnis Day Centre.

"Many people who use the centre are vulnerable and would find it difficult to make their voices heard and should not be denied access."

During her husband's recovery, Mrs Godby was unable to find him a full-time carer. The day centre allows her to continue teaching and remain financially independent.

She said: "Day centres at Victoria Villas and Bradstowe Court in Broadstairs are already close to capacity and concerns have been raised over whether Minnis Day Centre clients would find another day centre locally.

"There are no alternative facilities in Thanet that cater for Chris's needs. The closest location is Faversham, which is impractical.

"The Minnis Day Centre provides a vital lifeline for Chris and myself."

Kent County Council say that the Minnis Day Centre is part of an overall review of Older People's Services.

A KCC spokesman said: "The number of clients that use the Minnis centre has dropped from 91 in 2010 to 79 in 2011."

A meeting to discuss the review with clients and carers will be held next Thursday.

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