Mims Davies MP met with parents whose children would be affected with the closure of the Merrydale Respite Centre on Friday.
Merrydale is a local authority children’s home providing residential services for children and young people with severe learning difficulties. It supports children and their families through the provision of short breaks enabling young people resident the opportunity to play and mix with friends and peers in a safe and secure environment.
Commenting Mims said:
“I think it is so vital that when considering the closure of a centre or changes in the funding that people are invited to share their experiences and opinions. When moving forward and looking to find the best result for people they must feel like their opinion matters and be confident that the local authority is listening to their concerns.”
The Eastleigh MP then added:
“I will continue to work closely with these parents and their children, as they all deserve the best possible outcome. I also welcome that Cllr Judith Grajewski, who sits on both Eastleigh Borough Council and Hampshire County Council, was able to be present for this meeting, and together will be taking up a number of actions. I will also be writing to Hampshire County Council.”
“In the meantime I would welcome others within my constituency that use the facilities at Merrydale Respite Centre coming forward to me with their own views.”
Merrydale not only offers support for young people with disabilities but the families too. Children with disabilities often have able siblings who require that one on one time with their parents and the centre enables parents to be able to provide that.
Hampshire County Council (HCC) is encouraging everyone who utilises this service to give their opinions and experiences so a decision can be made on the centre’s future.
Commenting, Cllr Grajewski said:
“Hampshire County Council is committed to providing better services for disabled children and improve choice and flexibility for families which is why this consultation is so important.”