Elderly could be left without support as Hereford day centre faces closure

Drybridge House Centre, in St. Martin's Street, Hereford, is a day centre that has been open for 40 years but could now close due to financial losses over the pandemic.

The centre provides valuable mental and physical benefits to elderly clients.

Drybridge day centre, in St Martins Street, Hereford, faces threat of closure

Patients who use the centre's facilities and have done daily for years will be left without a vital means of support.

The centre says it currently provides a warm and friendly environment for up to 24 people per day, Tuesday to Thursday.

The staff at the centre also face redundancy.

Currently there are six contractual staff plus a relief worker and five volunteers affected.

A member of staff meeting with a client indoors in May for the first time since restrictions lifted

For the centre to continue it urgently needs more attendee's, public support, and sponsorships.

Its closure is under consultation by Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

A spokesperson said: "Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire is entering a consultation period with staff regarding the potential closure of the Drybridge House Centre.

"The charity has faced a number of challenges in recent years, which have been compounded by significant financial losses due to the coronavirus crisis and is sadly having to review whether it can continue operating the Drybridge House Centre.

"We will be liaising with all staff during the consultation period and will also keep our service users informed of any developments."

Clients at the Drybridge House day care centre

The final decision of its closure will be released by Age UK on Friday.