Sir – As part of its cost-cutting proposals, Oxfordshire County Council is considering the closure of all the large council-run day centres and also cutting the grants given to the smaller voluntary day centres.

Many of our clients using these centres live alone and are unable to get out without assistance.

They therefore look forward to and greatly appreciate their days at a centre. These people have worked hard all their lives, paid their taxes and brought up their children and now when they need it most are to be deprived of the chance to go out and meet their friends in safe and comfortable surroundings.

Some clients are cared for by their families who need some respite. Think of the spouses who are carers, many themselves in poor health. They so need the few hours respite that a day centre provides, knowing that their loved ones are being cared for and are happy.

Specialist transport, from the county council, which many clients need, is also under threat. Thankfully there are public-spirited people prepared to transport clients in private cars.

However there are some elderly people who cannot manage in a car and need a vehicle with easy access such as a lift and this number will only increase with increasing age.

Without the social contact for the elderly and respite for their carers provided by day care, many more people are at risk of becoming socially isolated, suffering from depression, needing more medical or residential care.

Overall, we estimate that this will cost the councils and the Government more than funding day centres and diminish the quality of life of our elderly citizens.

Christine Divall
Manager
Grove Day Centre for the Elderly