PRESS RELEASE

August 13th, 2008

McNeil meets with Salvation Army over closure

MSP Duncan McNeil has gained assurances that Fewster House residents who wish to stay on in Greenock will be cared for once the residential centre is closed.

He met with senior Salvation Army bosses at his Greenock office this week to discuss the future of the service.

That follows earlier talks with staff, residents and council bosses over the proposed closure in October.

Patricia Simpson, director of social services at the SA, explained that Fewster House has to close because both the facilities and the model of care are outdated.

Mr McNeil also heard that they working with employees to explore alternative options for the 29 staff who work there.

But has received assurances that the residents at Fewster House who will be relocated in the Greenock area will continue to receive community support.

He said: “It is clear from my discussions that substantial money needs to be spent on the facilities there and this model of care is no longer seen as best practice.

“While the hostel model is safe and alcohol-free they believe it can lead to residents being institutionalised.

“That being the case then they must be properly assessed so that they are able to complete their treatment programme and be provided with ongoing support within the community.

“It is important that the majority of the residents who would want to go back to their homes and families should be supported to do so.

“I was pleased to hear that Inverclyde social work and the Salvation Army are working very hard together to achieve what is best for the residents given the current circumstances. In fact, the individual assessments began this week.

“I would expect other local authorities to ensure those who wish to go home to places outwith Greenock to show the same commitment to proving them community support.

ENDS