Chadderton day centre's closure put on hold as community fight continues

The fight to save Chadderton Hall Park Day Care has been given a temporary reprieve, but families say the battle is far from over. The centre, which has provided vital services for adults with learning disabilities for 20 years, was facing closure after plans were announced in January. Now, Oldham Council has paused the decision until June 5 while MioCare conducts a full review and consultation with families.

Mark Hilton, a 50-year-old service user who attends the centre five days a week, relies on the facility for his daily care and social interaction. His sister Amanda Shelley launched an online petition that has already gathered over 500 signatures in just a few days. 'Mio Care's decision to close Chadderton Hall Park would not only strip away a sanctuary for those like my brother but also undermine the collective effort we have invested in creating a cohesive support system,' Amanda wrote.

Families argue that the centre offers something unique-a non-institutional setting where adults with learning disabilities can participate in tailored programs and activities that foster personal growth and social skills. 'They're more institutionalised, like in one room all together, whereas at Chadderton Park is not like that,' Amanda explained. The centre serves as a crucial support system for approximately 1.5 million people in the UK living with learning disabilities.

The emotional toll on elderly parents fighting to keep the centre open is becoming increasingly apparent. 'My mum used to always say it's such hard work, you've got to fight for everything. And I can see how she got so tired,' Amanda said.