Chadderton Hall Park Day Care future uncertain as closure plans paused

Families of adults with learning disabilities are facing an anxious wait over the future of Chadderton Hall Park Day Care, which was set to close before being put on hold following intervention from local MP Jim McMahon. Amanda Shelley, whose brother Mark has attended the centre for more than 20 years, says relatives feel 'left hanging' as they wait for clarity on whether the facility will stay open.

The centre, run by council provider MioCare, offers unique activities like woodworking and cookery classes that families say cannot be found elsewhere. Ms Shelley, who has been campaigning to save the service, says her brother Mark has complex needs and would struggle with the enclosed environments at other facilities. 'There's nothing like Chadderton Park,' she said, adding that she's worried about his mental health if he loses access to the current service.

Oldham Council has paused the closure plans while 'meaningful conversations' take place between the council, MioCare, and relatives. However, families report frustration at the lack of progress, with Ms Shelley saying she's been told there's no timescale for when a decision will be made. The centre hasn't taken new members in a decade, which contributed to the closure proposal, but families argue it simply needs better promotion and support.

Cllr Barbra Brownridge, cabinet member for adults, health and wellbeing, confirmed that further information gathering is underway but could not provide a timeline. For families like the Shelleys, who are already searching for alternatives, the uncertainty is taking a toll. 'They are amazing adults and they've had the short straw all along,' Ms Shelley said.