Council chiefs have been slammed for failing to take over the running of a respite centre for severely-disabled children after it was axed by a charity.
In December, Capability Scotland announced the closure of its facility at Corseford School, in Johnstone, which is partially funded by Renfrewshire Council.
Parents of severely-disabled children were given an average of two nights respite care every month.
Now they have been told they must take their kids 35 miles away to a centre in Lanark to get the same help.
Renfrewshire councillors passed a motion in December calling on the local authority to bring Corseford and other vital respite services in-house.
Councillor Derek Bibby said he is disappointed that has yet to happen.
He told The Gazette: “Renfrewshire Council agreed it would enter into discussions with Capability Scotland aimed at protecting the current level of service at Corseford.
“Councillors also agreed that any short and long-term solutions must include bringing the service in-house. It’s extremely disappointing that I can find no evidence of any attempt to follow through on this decision.”
Among those affected are Evelyn and Robin Oliphant, whose 15-year-old son David has cerebral palsy and a severe visual and hearing impairment.
Evelyn, 53, said it is a worrying time for the 16 families who relied on Corseford to offer a much-needed break.
She added: “There are no respite council services for people like my son.”
A council spokeswoman said: “Clients of the service who live in Renfrewshire have been provided with alternative services within the local authority area.
“Individuals can choose which service they wish to receive using self-directed support and can change their support if it no longer suits their needs.”
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