DAY Care centres across Powys are set to remain closed until the middle of August.

The centres have been shut since March 2020 when the first coronavirus lockdown was announced and Powys County Council went into emergency mode.

It was decided in the summer that they would remain closed, and that decision has now been extended after six-monthly review of the situation.

On Thursday,  January 14, Powys Council's adult social care portfolio holder, independent councillor Myfanwy Alexander’s delegated decision that the centres remain closed, will come into force

A council report has shown that in November, 34 members of staff who would normally work in the centres were working elsewhere in the authority, redeployed to more “business critical” activities.

Head of adult services Michael Gray said: “The most recent risk assessment concludes that it remains unfeasible to re-open the day centres and day services following the initial six month period.

“This report asks to maintain closure of day centres and day services for a further six months, up to August  12.

“This acknowledges the inability of opening up day settings during the pandemic.”

Mr Gray added that the time would also be spent discussing what services can be provided to those who used the centres.

Mr Gray added: “The majority of individuals who attend day services do so in order to attain social interaction while receiving care during the day.

“It is not currently possible to provide such a service due to the requirements of guidance to mitigate the impact of the pandemic.

Since their closure last March Mr Gray said that individuals had  been helped in different ways such as supported living, care ar home, family support or chosen not to receive an alternative.

He also welcomed the roll out of the vaccine in Wales but pointed out that the World Health Organisation estimates that 65 to 70 per cent of the population would need to be immunised before situation can be “declared safe.”

The day centres  are:

  • Park Day Centre, Newtown
  • Maesywennol, Llanidloes
  • Arlais Day Centre, Llandrindod Wells
  • Arosfa,  Brecon
  • Canolfan, Ystradgynlais
  • Day Centre at Bethshan, Newtown
  • East Radnor Day Centre, Presteigne
  • Hafal Crossroads, Machynlleth

In September 2020,  Welshpool Town Council closed the Ann Holloway Day Centre permanently, with the loss of five jobs.