Netherwood Day Centre faces fresh survival battle - Dementia patients and carers faced with closure plan
FAMILY carers with relatives suffering from dementia have been told celebrations over the saving of a treasured care centre may prove shortlived.
Netherwood Day Centre’s future has been placed in the balance again by a sweeping closure plan to be discussed at the Town Hall next week.
Supporters had hoped the West Hampstead centre would be safeguarded after the council stepped back from ordering its closure earlier this year.
But Netherwood and other care centres for those suffering from dementia and acute autism are now on a list earmarked for the axe. Raglan Centre in Kentish Town, Shoot Up Hill Day Centre in Kilburn and Highgate Day Centre could also close.
The council plans to launch a single service, the Centre for Independent Living, in Greenwood Place, Kentish Town. Officials believe it will be cheaper to run.
Jane Clinton, whose father has dementia and uses Netherwood five days a week, said: “It’s a worrying development. We are talking about different types of people with specific needs that need staff with specific training. They should not all be cared for in a one-stop shop.”
Violinist Nigel Kennedy, Baroness Helena Kennedy and actor Ricky Gervais backed the campaign to save Netherwood earlier year.
On Wednesday, Camden Council’s cabinet will decide whether to spend £200,000 on launching a consultation and paying architects to draw up designs for Greenwood Place. Labour councillor Mike Katz said: “We will carry on fighting for Netherwood to stay open.”
A council spokesman said: “If the report is approved, the Council will commence a period of consultation about the proposals with service users and carers at Greenwood Place, Raglan, Netherwood, Highgate and Shoot Up Hill day centres before a final decision is taken to proceed.”
by TOM FOOT