Macclesfield Town Council announces successful efforts to keep Disability Information Bureau open

By Alex Greensmith 28th Jun 2024

It looks like the 31-year-old charity has been rescued.
It looks like the 31-year-old charity has been rescued.

A Macclesfield charity has been rescued, by our town's smallest form of local government.

As reported by Macclesfield Nub News this time last month, a vote to close was set to be held for the Disability Information Bureau (DIB).

However, not enough people showed up to the vote, leaving the future of charity in limbo.

But on May 31, Macclesfield Town Council reported of a 'productive meeting' on saving the charity.

The service is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, and advise on any matters relating to disability.

29 days later, those talks have led to some good news for the town's disabled community.

Macclesfield Town Council in a statement wrote: "In a significant development for the local community, Macclesfield Town Council, in collaboration with partners CVSCE and CEC, is pleased to announce that the Disability Information Bureau will remain open despite recent financial challenges."

"This vital charity, which has been serving the community for 31 years, faced potential closure in April due to financial issues.

"Upon learning about the Trustee Board's recommendation to close DIB, the Council, together with CVSCE and CEC, acted swiftly to provide support. Their combined efforts have led to a successful intervention, ensuring that the charity can continue its essential services.

CVS Cheshire East has been praised for helping save the charity.

"The restructuring process, although necessary, has led to some service adjustments and staff redundancies. However, the popular Shopmobility service will continue to operate, and the flagship project, Welfare, Wellbeing, Work, funded by the National Lottery, will remain intact."

The Pierce Street charity also runs Shopmobility on behalf of Cheshire East Council, which will continue to run as is for now.

At the start of last month, two directors of the DIB resigned.

Cllr James Barber, who played a crucial role in the support efforts, commented, "Macclesfield Town Council is proud to support local organisations that make a real difference in our communities."

Shopmobility on Churchill Way will also be safe.

"We stepped in to support the DIB because we understand the vital role they play. I am pleased that our collaborative efforts have resulted in a breakthrough that safeguards essential services. A huge thanks to the DIB staff and volunteers who have continued to offer services through this difficult time and to CVSCE, who truly saved the day."

Looking ahead, Cllr Barber expressed his commitment to ensuring the long-term stability of DIB. "I look forward to working with the DIB and CVSCE to secure a stable and prosperous future for this important local charity," he said.

For more information about the Disability Information Bureau call 01625 501759 www.dibservices.org.uk.

     

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