A day care centre for the elderly described as 'full of love and happiness' is set to close after around 30 years in south Manchester. Age UK, the national charity, confirmed to the Manchester Evening News that services currently delivered from the Crossacres Resource Centre in Wythenshawe would be 'relocated' to other premises from next month.
But there is anger over the news, with people who use the centre claiming no prior consultation has taken place and information has been scant. A relative of one service user told the Manchester Evening News: "For some people, Crossacres is far more than simply a day centre. The centre has become a home from home and, for them, a lifeline. They are extremely upset about the closure, as are many of their friends at the centre."
Centre described as a lifeline for users
The centre provides companionship, routine, friendship, activities and social contact to older and disabled people. "For some users, it is one of the most important social connections they have during the week," the relative added. Another person who uses the centre said: "I am devastated the centre is closing. I feel like I've lost everything."
The centre offers a range of activities for the elderly and those with dementia, including a popular gardening club. It is understood to have been serving the community in Wythenshawe for around 30 years. The building, on Peel Hall Road, is owned by Manchester City Council and operated by Age UK, which rents it from the council.
Services to move to new premises
The charity said premises 'with better facilities' would now be used. Day care services will move to Benchill Community Centre in Wythenshawe, while all 'Ageing Well' activities will move to Village 135, on Hollyhedge Road, a spokesperson confirmed.
The service user's relative, who asked not to be named, said boxes were being packed up inside the centre and people have been left 'incredibly sad'. "The centre is open five days a week, Monday to Friday," they said. "Anybody can pop in and make enquiries. It's a wonderful place full of love and happiness. The vulnerable and elderly people that use the centre have nobody to speak to because the staff have been told in no uncertain terms not to say anything, but everybody knows. The staff at the centre are absolutely incredibly caring people."
Staff to remain in post
It is understood around 14 members of staff are employed at the site. Age UK said all existing services currently offered would remain and all staff members would remain in post.
A spokesperson for Age UK Manchester said: "We can confirm that services currently delivered from Crossacres Resource Centre will be relocating during October to premises with better facilities. Day care services will move to Benchill Community Centre, Wythenshawe, while all Ageing Well activities will move to Village 135, which is within walking distance of the Crossacres Centre.
"All existing services will continue, with minimal disruption expected during the transition, and all staff will remain in post. We will be working closely with our service users and staff to ensure everyone is kept informed at the appropriate time." Village 135, on Hollyhedge Road, Wythenshawe, offers sheltered housing and extra care schemes.
