Families say day centre rescue plan was ignored

Families of adults with disabilities say they are angry that their local council has failed to consider a rescue plan to save a day centre.

Campaigners proposed registering the Burnham Day Centre in Buckinghamshire as a community asset and running it themselves.

But a Freedom of Information request (FOI) submitted by a councillor confirmed that the plan was not assessed.

Buckinghamshire Council said the building would be turned into a family hub, so it would continue to be used by the community.

The day centre, known as Burnham Short Breaks, offers activities such as crafts, baking and bingo, for adults with complex needs.

The Conservative-controlled council decided to close the centre as part of a shift away from building-based provision but said the site could be sold to a community group interested in taking it over.

A group of families produced a business plan to register, buy and run the site.

However, an FOI request by a Reform councillor revealed that, although the council received the business plan, it was never evaluated.

Hazel Howe, whose son has used the centre for 13 years, said: "It was all a farce and we feel really that we've been taken for a ride."

Earlier this month, the council announced it would be turning the day centre into a family hub, effectively ending hopes of a community takeover.

Lesley Honey-Green, whose daughter Jeni regularly uses the centre, said: "I'm just so angry because [we have been] totally disregarded by the council."

She added that it was "degrading" that media reports of the change appeared before families were informed.

Neil Blackman, 60, has attended the centre for 40 years and his mother Isobel said it had provided "continuity of friendships, continuity of support and it's just around the corner from where Neil lives."

She added that closure would be "a huge loss to him".

The council said: "While it was previously intended to seek a sale of the site, that process did not progress.

"New national guidance has required councils to establish Best Start Family Hubs.

"A recommendation has now been made, subject to cabinet approval, to retain the site in council ownership so it remains in community use, starting with a Best Start Family Hub and with the potential to grow into a wider community hub over time."

It added that alternative provision was being arranged for users of Burnham Short Breaks.

Best Start Family Hubs were introduced by the Labour government in 2025 to provide a one-stop-shop for families needing support.

The government has committed £500m to the project, but cash-strapped councils will still be trying to save money by using existing buildings.

Some may argue that Buckinghamshire's approach means support for one vulnerable group is being compromised to improve services for another.

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