Adults with learning disabilities who use the Ryefield Centre in Ross-on-Wye for social activities are increasingly concerned as to what will happen to their services in future.

The family of Sheena Canning, who attends the Autumn Circle group, say she is very distressed that she may have to leave.

Sheena’s sister, Karen Thomas, told the Ross Gazette that the family have become increasingly concerned ever since Herefordshire Council’s consultation about the Ryefield Centre began. She said that they have been told that some of the services may be moved to Hereford, which would mean the users having to travel to Hereford, probably in a mini bus.

Karen said that Sheena, who is 53-years-old, has also started to develop Alzheimers and she needs routine and familiarity. Karen said that they had to go through an upheaval when they moved to Ross about two years ago, and now Sheena is settled and happy, they do not want to uproot her again.

Sheena told the Gazette that she loves meeting her friends at the Autumn Circle Group, which she attends twice a week.

Karen explained that as well as the Autumn Circle, there is a gardening club based at the Ryefield Centre, which is also very popular. She said that apart from these groups there is nothing else for these adults around Ross.

A spokesperson for Herefordshire Council said: “The consultation on children centre services has now ended and we thank everyone who took the time to have their say. The results will contribute to the Cabinet decision in September. “The children’s centre services at The Ryefield Centre will continue to operate as normal. The day activities for adults with learning disabilities will continue to run for the next few months, whilst the council works with those using the service to find alternative activities for them.”

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