Hundreds of people have signed a petition to save a Lancaster Day Centre from closure, after the County Council revealed it was on a list of adult social care facilities under review.
Vale View Day Centre, along with nine other day centres across the county, is one of ten providers that are set to be part of a strategic review into services across Lancashire.
Lancashire County Council said the sites have been identified for detailed scrutiny due to concerns around their condition, safety, and long-term viability.
But campaigners, including the Lancaster MP Cat Smith, says View Day Centre has been a lifeline for many older residents, offering daily activities, days out, and a vital source of friendship and support.
Ms Smith said: ‘’The centre helps to tackle loneliness and isolation, with many families describing it as a ‘second home’ for their loved ones.
‘’Families and service users have voiced deep concern about what the review could mean for those who rely on the centre’s care and community. Many fear that the potential closure would leave vulnerable residents without the support and structure they depend upon.
“Some of the testimonials I have received from service users and their families have been incredibly moving.
‘’I can’t fathom the effect this closure could have on so many people who rely on Vale View and on the families who depend on the peace of mind that their loved ones are happy, safe, and cared for.
‘’This isn’t just about a building; it’s about people, relationships, and the sense of belonging that Vale View provides. I’ll continue to do everything I can to make sure their voices are heard loud and clear by Lancashire County Council.”
The MP’s petition calls on Lancashire County Council to keep Vale View open and protect the essential community services it provides for older people in Lancaster.
Residents can continue to show their support by signing the petition online via Cat Smith’s website: www.catsmith.co.uk/valeview
Helen Coombes, executive director of Adult Services at Lancashire County Council, said: "The council has made clear that it is committed to providing excellent care to the residents of Lancashire.
"We understand that change can be difficult, but if the review goes ahead every step will be handled with compassion, respect, and support for residents and their families.
"We want to consider changes to how care is provided to ensure we’re providing the best possible outcomes for our residents.
"We also understand that this will be an unsettling time for some of our staff. We deeply value the dedication and compassion they bring to their work, and we will be committed to supporting them through this process."
If a review is approved, the council will launch an eight-week public consultation to gather feedback from service users, residents and stakeholders, and a further report to Cabinet will provide an update and overview following the consultation.
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