Derbyshire day centres facing closure under shake-up

Alfreton's Parkwood Centre requires major repairs, the council says

Derbyshire County Council is considering closing up to four of its day centres for people who are autistic or have learning disabilities.

The authority said it was looking at changes to the services it provided in the face of budgetary pressures.

It is also proposing to close up to four centres used for short breaks.

Councillors will be asked to vote at a meeting on 11 April whether to proceed with a public consultation on the plans.

The council said the four day centres under review were Alderbook in Chinley, the Parkwood Centre in Alfreton, No Limits in Chesterfield and Outlook in Long Eaton.

It said the Parkwood Centre had a £1.7m repair bill and only nine people were currently supported at Alderbrook.

'Rising demand'

The proposed consultation will also detail plans to close up to four of its short break centres in Long Eaton, Brimington, Swadlincote and Glossop.

However Alfreton's Morewood Centre would be retained.

The county council also said its recently expanded team of "Community Connectors" would continue to support people by finding them opportunities to socialise and explore their interests in the area where they live.

Natalie Hoy, cabinet member for adult care, said: "Like all other councils across the country we're facing increasing financial pressures that are outside our control.

"And with demand for adult social care support rising, it means we have to consider how we continue to deliver the services we are required to by law.

"I'd like to reassure people that these are proposals only and, if cabinet agree to consult, no decisions would be made until we had heard everyone's views."