|
 |
| Bury Free Press, 1 March 2006 |
|
| A service for people with learning and physical disabilities faces an uncertain future because funding has been withdrawn by a cash- strapped council. |
|
|
|
| Wood N Stuff, on Station Hill, Bury St Edmunds, helps up to 40 people a day regain their confidence and learn skills through woodwork and computer sessions. |
|
|
|
| The co-operative lost one member of staff and cash has been axed for funding members' sessions after Suffolk County Council, which has a £24 mllion budget shortfall, reduced its grant. |
|
|
|
| John Morley, general manager, said: "The worst case scenario is our services will shrink big time. |
|
|
|
| "We are like a big family here and it was heart-breaking to let someone go and tell people they can't come here as often as they like. |
|
|
|
| "It is rewarding to see people regain their self-esteem and take joy from making things and it is sad members will lose something positive in their lives." |
|
|
|
| The council gives £43 a day for each member going to the workshop, which sells the goods made there. |
|
|
|
| As well as people with learning and physical problems, work experience pupils and the probation service use the centre. |
|
|
|
| RAF veteran Cyril Salisbury, 87, of Thurston, was shocked to find out he may lose one of his days at Wood N Stuff. |
|
|
|
| Mr Salisbury, who flew bombers in World War Two, said: "If you sit at home looking at four walls all day you end up depressed. I have lived my life but I am very worried for all the youngsters here who may lose out. |
|
|
|
| "They are a wonderful bunch of people here and it has helped improve my alertness." |
|
|
|
| Steve Lummis, 49, of Stanton has lost a day. He said: "The people who made this stupid decision must come from another planet." |
|
|
|
| David Ruffley, MP for Bury, has demanded answers from council bosses about the cut in Wood N Stuff's funding. |
|
|
|
| A council spokeswoman said: "We constantly review the care we provide. All those currently using Wood N Stuff will continue to do so. |
|
|
|
| "In some cases, the number of visits will reduce. Any changes will be agreed with the individual receiving care before changes are made." |
|
|
|
|
|
