The comprehensive review of eight centres included extensive consultation and looked at centre users, available alternatives, the costs and levels of use. After a detailed evaluation three centres have been identified for possible closure – Pembury in Eastbourne, The Friary in Rye and Downlands in Peacehaven. The reasons include:
Pembury Road, Eastbourne
- Low use of service
- Alternative day services available nearby
- Difficult to link with complementary services, eg mental health
The Friary, Rye
- High unit costs
- Small, with relatively few people using services
Downlands, Peacehaven
- Small, with relatively few people using the services
- Difficult to link the services with complementary services, eg mental health
It is proposed to invest £100,000 across the three areas served by these centres in developments with the voluntary sector. Any further savings would be invested in supporting people at home and paying for residential and nursing care.
Every service user will have their needs reviewed to see how they can be most appropriately met.
Notes to editors
The review of day care services was established in June 2005 following a Cabinet decision. A consultation exercise took place in September and October 2005 with users of the services, their carers, and a wide range of organisations.
The eight day centres that were reviewed were:
- Pembury Road in Eastbourne
- Downlands in Peacehaven
- Phoenix Centre in Lewes
- Charter Centre in Bexhill
- Isobel Blackman Centre in Hastings
- Pinehill in Hastings
- Friary Day Centre in Rye
- Homefield Place in Seaford
Reference:
806
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