Learning disabilities activities cut by Conwy

MORE criticism has followed cuts by Conwy County Council in funding activities for those with learning disabilities.

The council’s Adult and Continuing Education service (ACE) previously organised various sporting events, travel and social occasions.

However, the way in which events are funded has altered and although it’s not yet clear how much the council has saved, a caring champion has slammed the authority.

Conwy Carers’ Champion, Cllr Cheryl Carlisle, who has years of experience with those with learning disabilities, claims the cuts are unfair.

“ACE provides all sorts of things, activities that young adults with learning disabilities can really enjoy,” she said.

“It helps develop their skills, it helps them if they want to look for work, in catering or gardening. It also helps carers, it is a break for people and a chance for them to go to work or go shopping and catch up on their sleep.

“You can’t explain to them the activities have suddenly gone. If they’ve got no verbal communication, they don’t understand.”

Cllr Carlisle also claims the funding cuts were pushed through cabinet without a proper debate or consultation.

“It didn’t come through the political process. It should have done and I’m very annoyed. It was just on a cabinet agenda under the heading ‘waive efficiency’. And that was that.

“There was no consultation with councillors,” she claimed.

“I’m upset for the people and I’m annoyed it didn’t come through the political process.

“These people are very vulnerable, in most cases these are the only activities they do in the week if they don’t go to a day centre, and it is their carers’ only respite.

“The other big issue is the transport costs which are no longer covered by Conwy County Council. People in rural areas will suffer. Carers who have contacted me are very worried.”

Conwy County Council was not able to provide the Weekly News with how much had been saved as a result of the cuts.

Cllr Liz Roberts is the cabinet member for social care and has met some of those who use the activities, and their parents.

“We acknowledge that change of any kind is challenging. It will take some time to explore the opportunities available, but in the meantime individual service users are having their assessed needs met,” she said.

“Early indications show that there are alternatives available within mainstream community groups, which would promote greater social inclusion and make the activities more sustainable in the long term.

“The additional benefit of organisations other than social services providing these services is that there can be a more flexible approach because eligibility criteria will not apply.

“Potentially, more people will be able to take advantage of the activities and opportunities and offer better value for money for the tax payer.”