Nottingham Charity Saved as Council U-Turns on Funding Decision

A charity in Nottingham almost had to close. The council changed their mind about funding cuts, which put two mental health services at risk: Hughendon Lodge and The Crescent. These services are both run by Framework Housing Association.

The services help 52 people with mental health issues and it costs £634,000 each year to run them. The local authority pays for everything, leading the charity to announce that closure was unavoidable if funding stopped.

Andrew Redfern, who leads the charity, announced good news on February 28: the council reconsidered shutting down the two places. They will stay open past March 31, providing a great relief for the residents.

Framework thanked the council for listening and acting, expressing hope that some residents can still move to new homes and get extra support. Framework values their long-term partnership with the council.

The council helps reduce homelessness and vulnerability, while also seeking to reduce service costs. External sources heavily fund some initiatives. Consequently, the charity wants to secure the services’ future and hopes to maintain their teamwork.

A council spokesperson commented on the situation, stating that they are serious about their legal duties of care. The council aims to provide the right care, clarifying that the initial decision wasn’t about cuts.

The council reviews services to adapt to needs and must ensure they use public money well. Framework questioned their decision-making, and they will examine it. The council prioritizes providing proper care, all while valuing taxpayer money.