Tory U-turn on cuts to disability clubs

The drastic cuts to funding for disability friendship clubs, which Wiltshire Council's beleagured administration proudly announced last month, have now been postponed at least until next year. This follows an outcry from those affected and their supporters. The responsible cabinet member, Jerry Wickham, said: "I very much regret the upset this has caused to the users and staff at the clubs and I extend my apologies."

The council says it will 'spend time working with the affected clubs on a new model going forward.' (sic)

The clubs are:

• Chippenham Gateway
• Devizes and District Association for Blind & Partially Sighted
• Devizes and District Association for Disabled
• Devizes and District Association PHAB
• Devizes Wednesday Club
• Elizabeth House, Salisbury
• Kennet Gateway Club, Pewsey
• Lifestyles Wessex Ltd, Salisbury
• Monday Wednesday Club, Trowbridge
• New Road Centre, Marlborough
• Redworth Club - Wessex Community Action, Salisbury
• Tuesday Club Malmesbury