Staff at a specialized dementia day care center in Lambeth are preparing for potential strike action as they oppose the closure of their facility and the relocation of services. Unison members at Central Hill Day Centre in Crystal Palace are currently balloting to decide whether to strike in response to job losses and the shutdown of the physical site.
Council Plans to Move Services Amid Building Concerns
Lambeth Council intends to transfer existing dementia services from Central Hill Day Centre to the Aspire Wellbeing Centre in West Norwood, an organization that currently works with adults with learning difficulties. Council officials cite significant disrepair at the Central Hill building and declining attendance as reasons for the move.
Unison Accuses Council of Running Down Service
However, Unison's Lambeth branch has accused the council of deliberately running down the service over the past two years. They claim that a number of referrals have been refused over the last 18 months, contributing to reduced attendance. According to Unison, approximately 10 job roles are at risk, with remaining staff set to be relocated to a single room at the Aspire facility.
A Lambeth Council spokesperson acknowledged that a small number of jobs could be affected but emphasized that they are exploring redeployment opportunities within adult social care services. The spokesperson stated, "The council recognises the important role day activities has for our Lambeth Adult Social Care service users and their families, across the borough as a whole."
Essential Service for Dementia Patients at Risk
Simon Hannah, Unison Joint Branch Secretary, criticized the council's approach, saying, "This is an essential service that has been cynically run down by the council over the last two years and now faces closure. Lambeth is failing in its duty of care to people with dementia and their families."
During last month's budget-setting meeting, carer Temi Adetunji, who uses the day center, told councillors, "Central Hill Day Centre is not just a building. It provides routine, safety, specialist care and trusted relationships." She emphasized that staff expertise in dementia care is crucial for preventing anxiety and distress among patients.
Growing Dementia Population in Lambeth
According to Unison, Central Hill is the only specialist dementia service provided by Lambeth Council. They report that around 2,000 people in Lambeth are living with dementia, a figure expected to rise as the elderly population increases in coming years.
Protests and Council Decision
Last month, protesters gathered outside Lambeth Town Hall urging the council to abandon its plans. Despite these demonstrations, the council formally approved the relocation later that evening. The council spokesperson clarified, "It is important to note the Lambeth dementia day service is not being closed. The provision is being relocated and there will continue to be a borough-wide dementia day service."
The council has promised that transport will be provided where needed and that there will be no reduction in service for current attendees. They also highlighted extensive engagement and consultation with service users, carers, staff, and trade union representatives throughout the review process.
Unison members at Central Hill are using this month to vote on strike action, with results expected to determine whether industrial action will proceed to protect jobs and maintain the current service model.
