Local residents using Pinelea Day Centre, in Midsomer Norton, have spoken of shock and sadness that the local resource is to close at the end of March. Despite funding and contributions, the Alzheimer’s Society say that there has been a significant shortfall, meaning that it can no longer sustain the service it provides in the building owned by Bath and North East Somerset Council.

Kelly Inwood, Area Manager, Alzheimer’s Society, told The Journal: “We recognise how valuable all services are to the people who use them, but as a charity, Alzheimer’s Society needs to focus on spending public donations wisely to effectively reach as many people affected by dementia as possible and have a greater impact.

“After careful consideration, Alzheimer’s Society has made the decision to stop delivering our Pinelea Day Service, which will end on 31st March 2020. Fortunately, the majority of people affected by this closure can be accommodated at our Hazelmeir Day Service.” (Based in Twerton, Bath).

“The Pinelea Day Service is currently financed by a combination of contract funding and contributions from service users. However, this does not cover the full running costs of the services, so we have been subsidising the significant shortfall for several years. Unfortunately, this is not a sustainable long-term solution.

“We always try to avoid closures wherever possible. Our priority is to support people with dementia and their carers who are affected by this change, and our staff are working hard to find the most appropriate, alternative service for them.

“Anyone directly affected by the closure can call our local Alzheimer’s Society office on: 01225 396 741.

“We are grateful to all the staff and volunteers who have worked for the Pinelea Day Service over the years and have done their utmost to support and care for people with dementia.

“Alzheimer’s Society continues to support people with dementia in Bath and North East Somerset through our Dementia Support service, group

services and Side by Side.

“We also provide information, support and advice through our Dementia Helpline on: 0300 222 11 22, website (alzheimers.org.uk) and Talking Point, our online peer support community.”

The Journal has approached B&NES Council for comment to see if there is a plan for the building post March 2020.