Fear as Amblecote special needs centre cuts proposed

Wendy Morris (far right), pictured with Subreena Klair, Tracy McClymont and Ken McClymont (left to right), said she had been scared about what the future will hold for her daughter

Fear and sleepless nights are the consequences of planned cuts, according to users of a special needs centre.

Dudley council proposes to cut nearly £1m from the budget of Amblecote's Unicorn Centre in the next two years, and closure is not being ruled out.

Wendy Morris, whose daughter needs round-the-clock care, said the facility was vital for her care and friendships.

The council stated it was looking at options, including sending users to the Queens Cross Network in Dudley.

Ken McClymont, from Dudley Centre for Inclusive Living, said Queens Cross Network was "not as big as Unicorn and it certainly couldn't cope and take in all the people that are here".

Mrs Morris, whose 32-year-old daughter is profoundly physically disabled, said it took staff a year and a half to understand how to care for her and how to move her safely.

To send her somewhere where people "don't understand her care needs" could impact on her limited mobility, the mother added.

'Communicate and consult'

Mr McClymont is calling for a public meeting, but cabinet member for adult social care Matt Rogers said there was no need for such a gathering.

The councillor said the authority was in contact with all families concerned and "we can't do anything until it goes to full council and we have a decision".

Mr Rogers added: "As soon as we get further information we will continue to communicate and consult with service users and look into options for everyone involved."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.