A report is going to cabinet next week which will propose the closure of seven shops across the County in Day Centres. These facilities offer a service to disabled and vulnerable people, providing help in sourcing equipment to help with day to day living.

The Council currently spends around £6 for each £1 it receives from the sales at these shops and is using this as part justification for the need to cut this service.

The shop at Abbey is to be the only one to stay open for the next year, with others around the county closing immediately or already closed.

In just over a year, Abbey will also close, however there will be provision in Spennymoor to view and be shown how to use equipment. If anyone you know finds that they are having problems with access in our area between now and the closing of the Abbey shop or after that, please get in touch.

The council plans to offer an extensive website facility, although I have pointed out that not everyone can access the internet. it also plans to have telephone and home visit capabilities but as with all changes, it is possible that this service will not meet the expectations of those in need. I would like to hear form anyone going forward who finds they have difficulties and i will be monitoring the changes to ensure that the alternative facilities are working and sufficient.

The report will be decided by cabinet next week on the 10th November. Residents with questions can attend that meeting. Details of the report can be found here:

http://www.durham.gov.uk/Pages/minutesinfo.aspx?ItemId=QGSB8PxXXwk=