Sam Gyimah MP has hailed the decision of Surrey County Council to reassess the impact of closing Beeches Bungalow in Reigate, and the devastating impact this would have for families using the service. 

Mr Gyimah has worked with parents to protect the respite centre since becoming the MP for East Surrey five years ago, helping to resist proposals for closure on more than one occasion.

The future of Beeches was amongst the items raised by Mr Gyimah in a meeting with senior leadership at Surrey County Council on Friday. The Council have committed to undertaking a detailed impact assessment and survey of experiences of parents of children with complex needs.

Mr Gyimah said:

“These children and their families have very difficult lives. It is in all our interests to ensure that the parents and siblings of children have access to respite services that are fit for purpose and available when needed. Beeches Bungalow provides a lifeline for families in this respect.

I am delighted that Surrey County Council are reconsidering their approach, and giving parents the opportunity to demonstrate the latent demand for the service. I am sure that through this detailed engagement with parents, the right decision will be reached.”