The Lancaster MP has taken her fight to save a much loved day centre from closure to Parliament.
Labour’s Cat Smith has petitioned parliament, urging the Government to intervene and halt plans by Lancashire County Council to close Vale View Day Centre, following her public petition reaching over 1000 signatures from residents against the closure.
The county council is currently consulting on proposals to shut the older adult day centre, which clients say provides a lifeline for older adults across Lancaster, Wyre, Morecambe and Heysham.
The council say no final decisions have been made.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday evening, Ms Smith said: “I’ve met with clients and their families who all tell me what a fantastic job the manager, Emma and her team do – offering clients an amazing experience, wholesome activities and exciting days out.”
She then formally presented the petition to the House of Commons.
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Ms Smith later added: “Vale View offers clients social activities that build friendships, prevent isolation, and give carers essential respite.
‘’From our conversations, it’s clear that Vale View is not just a day centre, it is a lifeline. The uncertainty caused by Lancashire County Council has left families feeling anxious and distressed about what the future holds.”
The Lancaster and Wyre MP has already visited Vale View to meet clients and staff, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact the centre has on the people's wellbeing and social inclusion.
One supporter who signed the petition said: “I recently calling in to the day centre with my mum. Never have I seen so many elderly folk making so much noise – laughing and engaging in a physical game!
‘’This is an essential service with so many benefits. It stimulates her so much and she is on a high for days afterwards. It’s also great exercise for her brain as she has dementia.”
Members of the public can continue to take part in Lancashire County Council’s official consultation on the future of the centre until the December 12 at https://online1.snapsurveys.com/Interview/5d6a1e81-382a-4277-843b-57ac828ff909
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