Conservative county councillors have cut three Adult Care Respite Centres after rejecting a petition against the closures signed by over 1,500 parents and carers.

Cllr Nigel Bell, Deputy Leader of the County Labour Group said:

”After nearly three hours of debate it was very dispiriting to see seven Conservative members vote to close the three respite centres at Tewin Road in Hemel Hempstead, Hixberry Lane in St Albans and Apton Road in Bishop’s Stortford.

We had listened to Jackie Wilks, the lead petitioner, argue persuasively for a service that works collectively with users for their needs while trying to be cost effective but looking at quality and effectiveness.

We had at least had a debate where many of the points made by parents/carers were highlighted across the chamber. It became clear that many families do not have the full facts about respite care availability and that it should be better publicised.

We wanted to see these plans rejected and the County Council take a more collaborative approach to relieve the stress on many of our hard pressed carer families.

It wasn’t even included in the budget proposals so could have been withdrawn for further consultation.”

Cllr Dreda Gordon, County Councillor for the Hixberry Lane area in St Albans said:

“Clearly austerity isn’t over when the Conservatives on the Panel vote this through on party lines.”

Press release from Cllr Nigel Bell