Madam,

Can I endorse the contents of the letter, ‘Most vulnerable dehumanised’ (last week’s Cambrian News). The Save Park Avenue Day Centre group has tried long and hard to ensure that the provision of day centres becomes a statutory requirement.

We know all too often the problems of loneliness and isolation in our society. For three years we have been campaigning with county councillors on this issue highlighting also the need for respite for carers. This provision was once all available in the Day Centre in Park Avenue, Aberystwyth. All staff were under one roof, with one heating bill, one insurance bill and a Wednesday open day where the community could lunch with members, providing real integration.

We have also pleaded with the council to amalgamate services with health providers. Now, as cuts take effect, they are looking at this, but it is long overdue. But where are the facilities to provide integrated services under one roof in Aberystwyth? There are not enough staff to provide meaningful care in the community.

Is it enough for elderly, lonely individuals to receive a 10-minute visit in the morning and a 10-minute visit in the evening? The reality is that the challenges of an ageing society are not being properly addressed.

Yours etc

Cllr Mair Benjamin

Maesyrafon

Aberystwyth.