THE CLOSURE of a long-established council-run employment scheme would be a devastating blow for disabled workers in Rhyl, said UNISON last week.
Denbighshire County Council’s scrutiny committee met last Thursday (November 6) to discuss the future of Cefndy Healthcare in Rhyl.
Founded in 1976, Cefndy makes healthcare products such as shower seats, commodes and perching stools. It’s a commercial operation and creates meaningful and well-paid jobs for disabled people, says UNISON, employing around 30 staff, most of whom have disabilities.
The union says closing Cefndy would destroy skilled jobs and rip away a vital source of community pride. UNISON is urging the council to consider alternative actions, such as consolidating Cefndy with other council-run schemes and looking at ways to grow the business.
The council should not make a final decision until all viable options have been properly considered, the union says. The council’s cabinet is due to meet on November 18 to decide Cefndy’s fate.
Cefndy worker for over 30 years Michelle Davies said: “Cefndy was established almost 50 years ago to support people with disabilities and has done a lot of good in the community.
“People like working here because they know they can get help as well.“
Former general manager of Cefndy Bill Whittaker MBE said: “Cefndy is more than a workplace, it’s a community where individuals feel valued and appreciated.
“The approach has always been to treat each individual with dignity and respect, regardless of their abilities. Rhyl is an economically disadvantaged area with high unemployment rates and the closure of Cefndy would disproportionately hit the most vulnerable members of the community.”
UNISON Denbighshire branch secretary David Morgan said: “Cefndy Healthcare provides both manufacturing expertise and a huge benefit to the local area. It also offers meaningful, stable and safe employment for disabled workers.
“The council needs to look properly at all the alternatives available. It must put off any closure decision until it’s spoken to everyone involved with Cefndy about how to best move forward.”
