LABOUR’s Joyce Watson AM has intervened in the campaign to save Tenby’s Avenue Social Activity Centre.
Pembrokeshire Council is consulting the public on the future of the centre, which is currently used by 38 adults with learning disabilities.
An online petition opposing the threatened closure has more than 1,100 signatures.
Pembrokeshire Council has now said it will take more time to consider the future of the facility, according to a letter from Pembrokeshire Council’s director of adult services, Pam Marsden to the AM.
On January 15, Joyce Watson wrote: “I was very pleased today to hear that Pembrokeshire County Council is taking more time to consider the future of this important facility.
“This extra time will allow proper assessments to be carried out for the users of the SAC to ensure that any future reports to Pembrokeshire Council’s Cabinet contains up to date and relevant information.
“I can see that the current building is in need of repair, but was disappointed that the report that went to the cabinet in November did not contain options for alternative accommodation for the facility. Relatives and users of the centre are keen to protect the model of care currently provided. They consider this model to be excellent. I’ve also been told that the November report has had a demoralising impact on the centre’s staff.
“I look forward to reading the new report when it is available.”
Announcing the consultation last November, Ms Marsden said the proposed move is set against the background of a shift in care away from dependency to ensure that people are supported to live as independently as possible:
“The Social Services and Well-being Act (Wales) details a vision which is about maximising independence and connecting people to their communities,” she said.
“This coupled with a rise in expectations and demand sits alongside the need for the Council to deliver significant efficiency savings over the next few years.”
Mrs Watson is urging people to have their say before the consultation closes at midday on Friday, February 26.
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