RESIDENTS have been campaigning against the possible closure of some of the conurbation’s day centres. 

Tricuro, a trading company owned by BCP Council, could close five of eight buildings as the authority looks to move to more community-based services. 

One of them facing closure is Moordown Plus centre, in Wimborne Road, which provides specialist day care for people living with dementia. 

Debbie Davies, whose sister Jennifer Wells attends the day centre, said the service provides a “lifeline” for dementia sufferers and their carers.

Bournemouth Echo: Moordown day centre, Bournemouth

She said: “We walk a short distance with my sister who is a client at Moordown Plus. She has a very positive experience there and is in an upbeat mood at the end of the day.  

“Without this she would be sleeping late and then watching TV for the rest of the day. I believe the stimuli and the care she gets at the day centre helps slow down the illness.  

“It gives her an independent life away from home and helps her to retain some self respect and confidence.  

“This enables me as her carer to recharge my batteries so that I can continue to look after her. This is a vital and brilliant service.” 

The day centre had a £1m refurbishment in 2018 and aims to provide high quality, modern facilities specifically designed for those with dementia. 

In January, Moordown ward councillor Kate Salmon launched a petition which saw 230 people urging BCP Council to think again about closing Moordown Plus day centre. 

At a cabinet meeting last week, it was announced £250k extra will be handed to day centre services to help alleviate pressure. 

However, Cllr Salmon said she is still concerned that Moordown Plus remains under threat. 

She said: “I absolutely understand the severe financial challenges currently facing BCP Council, but we must not allow vital, high quality community services to disappear without very careful consideration.  

“There is a strong case for retaining the Moordown Plus centre, given its excellent condition and high standard of service provision.  

“Local families who use the centre are understandably devastated at the prospect of its closure." 

If the proposal is taken forward, changes are likely to be introduced over a two-year period from April 2024. 

Cllr David Brown, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: “Over the past year or so we have spoken to many service providers and people who use services to influence the way services are designed, commissioned and delivered.” 

BCP Council previously said it spends 93 per cent of the budget for day opportunities on building-based services, with the community-based options ‘more cost effective’ and able to be tailored to individual needs.