MORE parent-carers have voiced their support for the Daily Echo's Save Juniper Centre campaign.

The centre in Jumpers Road, Christchurch could be axed because of Dorset County Council budget cuts.

But it provides a lifeline for about 100 people with learning disabilities, their carers and parents.

Ray Jones from Glenavon Road, Highcliffe is concerned about the future for his daughter Vanessa.

She has been going to the Juniper Centre for 24 years since the age of 16 and would be "devastated if it were to close".

"She would lose the support and friendships which have been a central part of her life over those years and which cannot be replaced by any of the apparent alternatives suggested.

"It would take another 24 years."

Referring to social services administrative jobs paid for by ring-fenced cash especially set aside, he said: "What should be ring-fenced is money to keep all of the institutions going.

"Getting rid of two administrators would save the £50,000 which could keep the Juniper Centre operational.

"What county hall officials appear not to recognise is that it is the Juniper Centre and its continued existence that is important, not the administrators."

He added: "The powers-that-be will make pious noises, but the end result will be that more of the less fortunate in our society will be left to fend for themselves."

Elderly carers also face a cut in income because, on reaching retirement age their invalid care allowance ceases.

In addition the value of income support granted to the cared-for has been eroded, he said.

Jean and Len Haggis live in the St Catherine's Hill area of Christchurch.

They are in their 70s and have a severely disabled son, David, 43, who uses the Juniper Centre on a daily basis.

She said: "It's part of the community. It just can't be closed because so many people are reliant on it.

"The youngsters are in the community.

"David can't read, he can't write, but they encourage him in all ways possible."

Regarding promises of more care in the community if Juniper closes, she echoed other parents' claims that their now adult offspring are not up to living away from home.

"David doesn't go anywhere by himself. We have to be with him all the time."

"It's his place. When he goes there, it's his world."