Closure of Disability Charity Described as ‘Lifeline’ Loss for Users

The impending closure of a charity assisting disabled individuals, attributed to funding challenges, has led to its service users describing the situation as “losing a lifeline.” Marion Fitzgerald, 66, a trustee, stated that the Allerdale Disability Association (ADA), located in Workington, Cumbria, was compelled to cease operations because anticipated private funding failed to materialize. Ms. Fitzgerald highlighted that no comparable service exists in Workington or the surrounding region, noting that this closure occurs amidst a “big increase in demand” for the charity’s assistance. Nick Wilson, a service user living with complex learning difficulties, characterized ADA as “vital” for him, adding that its closure “stopped him in his tracks.” Established in 1976, the charity offers a dual service: assisting disabled individuals with forms required for the benefit system and operating as a social hub for user gatherings. Ms. Fitzgerald explained that the absence of the pledged funding, which had the potential to sustain the facility for over a year, rendered the charity unable to compensate its employees. She further stated, “We do use a lot of volunteers who do an excellent job but there are staff members affected.” Speaking to BBC Radio Cumbria, Mr. Wilson reiterated that the charity’s assistance was “vital” for him. He recounted, “I was told it had closed when I really needed their help.” He specified that ADA had been helping him with a tribunal for personal independence payments by completing necessary forms. Kelly Stuart, Mr. Wilson’s fiancee, expressed that she was “absolutely devastated.” She commented, “There isn’t going to be any other service in West Cumbria that could offer the level of expertise that ADA can do without going towards solicitors.” “We now have to find money to pay for solicitors to help Nick,” she added. Ms. Stuart has initiated a fundraising page in support of the charity. Ms. Fitzgerald remarked, “Our clients require a lot of support – I think many service users would not leave the house if it wasn’t for our social gatherings. “If ADA was going to leave a legacy, it is the friendships that have been forged by our get-togethers.” The charity currently lacks a definitive closure date and stated it is investigating “every possible avenue to remain open.” “Our clients are so upset about this and reluctant to see this close – it is a lifeline,” the charity added. ADA expressed being “very grateful” for a £10,000 grant received from Cumberland Council, but indicated that this amount was insufficient to sustain its budget.