Age Concern branch announces closure after 38 years
BBCA charity that has operated for 38 years has announced it will close its doors at the end of November.
Age Concern Twyford was given a last-minute reprieve by the council to continue operating for two months after announcing it was at risk of closure in August.
But the charity has not been able to get a provider to take over the day centre and its last day will be 27 November.
A statement on its website said it was the result of "ongoing financial pressures, including rising operating costs and a sustained decline in attendance".
Stephen Conway, leader of Wokingham Borough Council, said the council was "determined to find a solution for the community of Twyford and beyond".
The centre offers day care for older residents providing respite for family members and reducing isolation.
The charity has its own board of trustees and is independent of other Age Concern branches that were previously absorbed by Age UK.
The council said expressions of interest were received from potential providers and the submissions were assessed to ensure they could provide the services long-term.
However, the day centre could not secure a viable partner, and the charity will now close its doors at the end of November.
Conway said: "We will now work with partners on a new expression of interest process that we believe may attract a different range of potential providers."
The council also acknowledged the closure would be difficult for families that depended on its services.
The charity said: "This decision has not been taken lightly and we have carefully evaluated all various options available to us.
"We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of our journey over the past 38 years."
