The future of the Clapham Unit is uncertain and users, like myself, are very worried that this facility may close in the future.

I am quadraplegic, confined to a wheelchair.

I get enormous benefit from the unit, because along with the activities I do there it also gives me a chance to talk to people in similar circumstances to my own.

I have made new friends and have had a chance to compare notes.

For those who don't know, this unit is a day centre, attended by some 80 people with disabilities every week.

The range of disabilities is wide. Some people are able to walk, though most are confined to manual or electric wheel chairs.

Most importantly this unit gives several hours respite each day to the carers who look after the users of the unit.

It provides a wide range of rehabilitation and leisure activities including computing, cookery, handicrafts, relaxation exercises and games. Physiotherapy and pain relief is also provided for those who need it.

Trained staff and appropriate equipment helps deal with the special needs of its clients.

The Unit is located in a building particularly suited to the needs of its users. I find it easy to get around in my wheelchair.

The building surrounds a central courtyard with a high glass roof making a well lit space with indoor plants and a pool with fish. This is a nice area to be in.

The courtyard is surrounded by a corridor which leads off to the activity rooms and physiotherapy area. A well laid out building like this is very important to wheelchair users like myself.

I urge all readers of this letter to lend support in keeping this vital facility open by writing to their MP and Swindon Borough Council.

CLIVE CROOK

Hawthorne Centre

Swindon