We are against the closure of the Merrydale and Sunbeams respite centres.

Merrydale and Sunbeams provides an indispensable, local respite centre for children with severe disabilities and their families.

The centres have the facilities necessary to care for these children with complex needs, the staff are fantastic and provide a home from home environment. This gives the families a much needed break from the responsibility of 24 hour, 7 days a week care. A time to recharge and spend much needed time with partners and siblings, safe in the knowledge that the children are happy and well cared for.

The families have not been offered a viable alternative to the service currently provided at Merrydale and Sunbeams.

We believe that if Merrydale and Sunbeams were to close it would have a profound effect on these children and their families. It could lead to the need for even greater levels of support for these and future families who would not get the opportunity to use these centres. It would therefore be counterproductive in terms of budget reduction.

If you reside in Hampshire, please support us and sign the petition. Help us keep these amazing places open for our very special children