MP Joan Walley takes day centre fight to Parliament

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STOKE-ON-TRENT North MP Joan Walley has called on the Government to intervene to save a day centre from closure.

Mrs Walley raised the issue of Kidsgrove Day Service during this morning's health debate in the House of Commons.

Cabinet members at Staffordshire County Council are expected to confirm the closure of the day centre tomorrow as part of plans to modernise provision for adults with learning disabilities.

They say some service users with less complex needs would be more fulfilled accessing 'opportunities' in the community, but campaigners do not believe the same level of care would be available in the independent sector.

Mrs Walley asked Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt if he agreed that the county council should hold off making a decision so more information about replacement services could be published.

She said: "Tomorrow Staffordshire County Council is expected to confirm devastating cuts to services for those with special needs, including the closure of the purpose-built Kidsgrove Day Centre in my constituency. Does the secretary of state agree it's time for the council to wait and at the very least share its detailed needs assessment and future action plan before forcing these cuts through."

Mr Hunt said he would look into the issue.

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MP Joan Walley takes day centre fight to Parliament