A RESPITE centre for children with complex health needs has been closed overnight – and may not re-open until the middle of next week.

Staff shortages are behind the move, with parents being called yesterday evening and told to collect their children.

However, it is believed parents were told about 2pm today that the facility should now be open tomorrow.

No. 1 has been earmarked for permanent closure next year in favour of a community foster service.

Hereford MP Jesse Norman says the current closure is "completely unacceptable".

Paul Gilks, whose son uses No.1, said he fears more short notice closures in the future because of the uncertainty staff face over their futures.

"We had a call yesterday evening asking us to collect our son as they could not get cover overnight," he said.

"They've been trying to get staffing cover.

"The children were very confused.

"We're hoping it will be open for the weekend but we're awaiting confirmation.

"They are blaming staff shortages. We have said this would happen. I think there will be more short notice closures. The staff are really concerned, but it's not their fault."

Mr Gilks added he was very happy with Mr Norman's comments.

The news comes just days after Herefordshire Council, the Wye Valley NHS Trust and the Clinical Commissioning Group, said No.1 could remain open past next March, the original closure date, "subject to staffing availability, regulatory requirements and financial resources".

Wye Valley NHS Trust has released a statement this morning saying its priority is to “provide safe care for its patients and those that use its services”.

“On that basis it has taken the difficult decision to temporarily close No 1 Ledbury Road due to staffing issues beyond its control - it is unable to cover staff sickness at short notice.

“This is not the first time this has happened as the service relies on a small group of specialist staff.

“As has happened previously, the Trust informed parents of children that use the centre as quickly as possible after the decision was made and has given them an undertaking that it will re-open once the staffing issue is resolved and it is safe to do so.

“The situation is being monitored closely and the Trust expects the centre to re-open by the middle of next week.

“In the meantime it is working closely with its commissioners and partners, and with parents of children who use the centre, to make alternative short-term arrangements.”