Cllr David Brake

Decision over future of centre delayed after new proposal submitted

A day care centre for disabled adults has won an 11th hour reprieve on the decision over its future.

It follows the submission of a new proposal from Medway Community Healthcare to continue the work of The Balfour Centre, which is at risk of being shut down as part of an overhaul of adult social care services by Medway Council.

The Rochester centre provides support for adults with disabilities.

The bid came just as the eight-week consultation into its future ended. Medway Council officers will now need time to explore the viability of the proposal.

The council announced plans to close the centre in November following a drop in the number of people using the facility and a consultation was launched mid-December.

Outsourcing of Nelson Court residential home in Chatham, Robert Bean Lodge in Rochester and Platters Farm Lodge in Rainham was also being looked at as part of the proposals.

At Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, members agreed to sell Nelson Court and outsource the two other residential homes.

Members said the homes were too expensive to run and it was cheaper for them to be run independently.

Commenting on the last minute proposal for The Balfour Centre, Medway Council’s portfolio holder for adult services, Cllr David Brake, said: “Throughout this consultation we’ve been very keen to hear the views from all parties, which has allowed this proposal to come forward.

“We now need time to consider very carefully this proposal from Medway Community Healthcare and check to see whether it’s a viable option for the people who use The Balfour Centre, for staff and for the council.”

Managing director of Medway Community Healthcare Martin Riley said the organisation was keen to work with the council to look at the feasibility of supporting the ongoing work of the centre.

“Before agreeing any long-term commitments we must first take a detailed look at the practical requirements needed to provide the service and ensure that the needs of local people will be met both now and into the future,” he said.

Medway Labour Party said while they welcomed the 11th hour reprieve on the decision, they would not be complacent.

Labour Cllr Vince Maple said: “We welcome this option, but we shouldn’t be complacent or celebrate until we know the centre will definitely stay open.

“The service is a good community facility and dozens of people would be affected if it closed, including families, carers and staff.”

He added: “The council agreed to outsource the other homes and that’s not the right move. We’re currently working towards calling a special council meeting to look at this whole issue.

“We will do everything we can. We think having in-house care is a good thing.”