A LEDBURY parent has given a cautious welcome to news that a charity could take over the children’s respite centre in Hereford.

The centre, at No 1, Ledbury Road, has been earmarked by Herefordshire Council for closure in March, to be replaced by a foster care plan.

But a meeting next month could be a game-changer.

The centre provides respite care for children and

young people with complex health and social

needs.

But the committee of the Children at No 1 charity says it hopes people will come forward to help secure its future with a meeting for interested parties, set to be held in Hereford early next month.

Ledbury businesswoman Melissa Boyle, whose children Fergus and Gwen attend the centre said: "I think any progress is a good thing, especially if it could save the unit, which is perfect for my kids.

"We have needed a plan B, and this idea could be a promising plan B, if the local authority can't save the unit."

But Mrs Boyle, owner of The Velvet Bean in the Homend, called for Herefordshire Council to give the charity enough time to come up with a viable business plan.

“We are looking for people who are keen to support a Herefordshire model of respite care for the future,” said charity committee member, Kevin Basden.

“It will discuss the need for us to put together a

business plan with the overall aim of taking No

1 over.There seems to be a lot of people who have mooted that they would like to be involved."

He added: "It will take a substantial amount to

run the unit but the intention is to keep it where it is. It would be ridiculously expensive to move it elsewhere.

“We believe there is a business model to be found that comes up not losing money.”

He said funding opportunities that could be explored include Children in Need and the National Lottery.