McLaughlin welcomes Trust decision to keep The Cottages respite unit open

The decision by the Western Health and Social Care Trust to maintain provision of care at The Cottages respite facility in Derry has been welcomed by Foyle Sinn Fein MLA Maeve McLaughlin..

Parents had express concerned about future of the Waterside facility just over a year ago when the Trust confirmed it was carrying out a review of it services.

The six-bedded unit provides short-term respite care for children with varying degrees of learning disabilities.

Ms McLaughlin, chairperson of the Stormont Health Committee, said she had been informed by the Trust it was now in a position to sustain its services.

She added: “As Foyle MLA in the outgoing Assembly and chair of the Health Committee, I constantly lobbied the Health Minister and the Western Trust on behalf of those who depended on the facilities provided by the staff and management of The Cottages.

"I therefore welcome the announcement by the WHSCT that it is now in a position to sustain the current provision.

"The decision to establish a Parents Forum to assist the WHSCT in tailoring future service provision to current and emerging needs for children and their families is particularly welcome.”

Ms McLaughlin concluded: "I look forward to working with management,staff and service users in whatever capacity I can best assist them in the times ahead."