Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The issue of adequacy in access to community spaces, which are vital for social networks and civic pride.
What assessment has the Government made of the adequacy of access to community spaces?
The Government recognise that community spaces are hugely important, whether it be for social networks, community participation or civic pride. We debated community centres and small charities in Westminster Hall last month.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific assessment of adequacy was provided, only general recognition of importance.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The charity St John's Winchester, which runs a community space for people with dementia and has been operating for 900 years, faces challenges due to increased employment costs leading to its deregistration from the Care Quality Commission. The questioner raises concerns about the financial burden on councils and NHS if such charities struggle.
The charity St John's Winchester runs a brilliant community space for people with dementia; I have attended it myself and sung songs with them, including Motown. It is also one of the oldest charities in the UK and provides almshouses for vulnerable people. It has been running for 900 years and has survived the plague and the civil war, which was particularly ferocious in Winchester. It has specifically cited the increase in employment costs as a reason why it has had to deregister from the Care Quality Commission. What are the Government doing to support charities that provide social care and healthcare? We know that if these charities struggle, the costs will go on to councils and the NHS.
I join the hon. Gentleman in paying tribute to his local charity—indeed, I am a patron of a dementia charity in Barnsley. I recognise the challenges faced by charities, which is why I hosted a number of them at No. 10 with a Treasury Minister. I would be delighted to speak to the hon. Gentleman about this matter.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific support measures were outlined; only general recognition and offer for further discussion was provided.
Response accuracy