DAY centre users in Bournemouth are facing a second blow after it emerged staffing levels could be cut at one of only two that will remain open.

Earlier this year, the Echo reported on council moves to close Darracott Day Centre in Pokesdown and Malvern Day Centre in Moordown, as well as Horizons, part of April Court Residential Home, Kinson.

Now service users, many with learning disabilities, at Boscombe Day Centre are facing having fewer staff on hand.

One, Alister Cadness, said: “They’re trying to cut eight staff and we don’t agree with it, it’s not right.”

Alister, 41, said it would mean less activities for users when they visit the centre.

“It’s not fair, we could just lose everything. They’re not thinking about what they’re doing,” he added.

Bournemouth council said it had “fully involved” service users in the changes.

Neil Smurthwaite, service director for community care, said: “A consultation is currently underway regarding proposals to changes in staffing arrangements and levels, involving all staff who work at five of our day centres for adults with disabilities.

“This consultation follows the cabinet’s decision on July 20, 2011, to close three of the five day centres and to develop a new service based in the community.

“No decisions will be made regarding staffing levels until the consultation ends on September 30.

“We are working with our staff to ensure that redundancies can be avoided where possible through redeployment, particularly with the set up of a new community-based service.”

The council said there were currently 51 people receiving day care who were also in residential care, with 72 people who access day centres and live independently.

Cllr Lynda Price, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “I of course understand that any change can be very upsetting and may cause concern and that is why we will continue to work very closely with the families and service users to discuss their individual needs and support them in looking at alternative options to ensure the transition is made as smoothly as possible.”

She said a move to give users individual budgets had already had a good take up, allowing them to access community-based activities.

Cllr Price added that “very difficult decisions” had to be made to make savings across the council.