VIEWS SOUGHT ON DAY CARE

Those being consulted include current users of the services and their relatives, carers, staff, and professionals from other areas including housing, health and transport.

"We want to hear people's views to help us ensure that we are providing the best services we can and that they provide best value for council tax payers," says Councillor Bill Bentley, lead member for adult social care.

"It's also important for us to hear the views of people who may use the services in the future so we can plan for them. Involving users and carers in the planning and delivery of services is one of our priorities, and this exercise is part of that."

The day centres provide a range of activities such as art and discussion groups, gentle exercise, games, music and visiting the hairdresser.

The eight day centres are:

Pembury Road in Eastbourne

Downlands in Peacehaven

Phoenix Centre in Lewes

Charter Centre in Bexhill

Isobel Blackman Centre in Hastings

Pinehill in Hastings

Friary Day Centre in Rye

Homefield Place in Seaford

Views are also being sought about Gilda Crescent in Polegate, which has 20 respite care and 16 Living at Home places, as well as 12 day care places and three long stay residents. The Living at Home programme helps people to remain at home, return there after leaving hospital, or avoid going into hospital at all.

The consultation periods closes at the end of October. A report will then be submitted to the County Council's Cabinet in January 2006.

If you would like your views taken into consideration, contact Jo Longhurst on 01323 466547 or email [email protected]