Devastating blow as funding withdrawn for vital Kilmarnock mental health hub

A crucial mental health service based in Kilmarnock faces an uncertain future following the withdrawal of its essential funding.

Morven Day Services, an invaluable institution in the local community, is facing financial difficulties. The East Ayrshire health and social care partnership (EAHSCP) unveiled plans to revoke their key financial support.

The service currently offers support to over 130 individuals dealing with mental health challenges in the region.

This shocking news has left both volunteers and service users dismayed and concerned for the future.

Martin Hancock, a service user and volunteer at Morven Day Services who is also the chair of the service user committee, expressed his shock: “The decision to cut funding came as a complete surprise, and left us all extremely upset and distressed.”

“We hope the local authority will reconsider, or that new funding can be found, so this vital service can continue. But as it stands, the funding is set to cease in May, leaving us in a precarious situation.”

The EAHSCP recently completed a review of services aimed at supporting individuals living with learning disabilities or mental health problems. The goal was to ensure that the resources are efficiently used and that the people are receiving appropriate care and support to achieve their desired outcomes.

The results from this review led the Integration Joint Board to agree on the decision to cease funding for the Morven Day Services on December 13, 2023. As indicated, this funding will cease in May 2024.

Senior representatives from the Health and Social Care Partnership personally met with the Morven Centre’s management team on January 9 to inform them of this unfortunate decision.

Jo Gibson, who heads up Wellbeing and Recovery with the East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, stated, “the well-being of East Ayrshire residents is our highest priority. We are reaching out to all those currently receiving support from the Morven Centre to talk about their needs and identify alternative support systems. This proactive approach has already started.”

People affected by this decision were welcomed on January 12 to meetings in Kilmarnock and Glasgow, receiving support from HSCP staff and having their questions answered.

Morven Day Services, operated by Crossreach, the social work division of the Church of Scotland, has been lending a hand to the community for over three decades.

They offer support, counselling and a wide range of therapies designed to alleviate stress and anxiety to adults living mainly in East Ayrshire. Moreover, they also stage a multitude of activities including the likes of arts and crafts, wellbeing activities such as yoga, music therapy, walking groups, swimming, and gardening. They also provide meals, and warm drinks over lunchtime.

Those who utilise the service also have access to trained staff five days a week and can get support at the immediate point of need, something which isn’t possible through statutory services.

Martin further explained the gravity of the situation: “Local NHS mental health services and the social work department are already struggling to cope with an overwhelming backlog. Some people are being forced to wait over 18 months before semi-regular check-ups, and a high percentage then end up being referred to Morven day services.”

“This centre is rated as one of the best in Scotland. Several staff members have been recognised for their dedication to the service users. The community spirit within this group is irreplaceable, and there’s nothing quite like it in the surrounding area.”

As the moment, the mental health community hub is on the lookout for alternative funding options to safeguard valuable services for the local area.

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