Charity proposes closure of school for disabled children (From Oxford Mail)

Charity proposes closure of Penhurst School for disabled children in Chipping Norton

5:13pm Wednesday 24th October 2012 in News By Freddie Whittaker, covering Politics and Kidlington. Call me on 01865 425498

A SCHOOL for severely disabled children looks set to close its doors next year.

The charity Action for Children yesterday announced plans to close its Penhurst School in Chipping Norton.

Operational Director of Children’s Services Barbara Street said the charity had “reluctantly made the extremely difficult decision” to propose the closure of the school.

She said: “We do understand that many people will be anxious about this news, but despite our best efforts the number of children and young people at Penhurst is decreasing as there is a falling demand for providing this kind of care.

“As a result, the service is proving unsustainable and is losing income – projected to run a substantial deficit over this financial year.

“We remain absolutely committed to meeting the needs of the children and young people at the school and their families.

“If the decision is taken to close Penhurst, we would work with a number of other organisations to ensure that all the children and young people at the school continue to receive high-quality care.”

A final decision will be made by the charity in February, and the school is currently consulting with staff and the community on the matter.

Anyone wanting to give their views should write to Penhurst Feedback, Penhurst School, New Street, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire OX7 5LN or email penhurst@actionforchildren.org.uk The announcement comes after the charity refused to confirm whether or not closure was being considered when contacted by the Oxford Mail in May.