Woking's new respite centre opens for families

A £5.7m centre to offer respite for families caring for adults with additional needs has been opened in Woking, Surrey.

Emily Lodge features a sensory room, lounge and eight en suite bedrooms at the property in Goldsworth Gardens.

The building was officially opened by Surrey County Council leader Tim Oliver, a year after construction began.

One mother whose daughter has made a five-night stay already, described it as "absolutely amazing".

Mr Oliver said: "My wife and I know from personal experience how challenging it can be when a loved one has disabilities and additional needs, and the level of commitment that takes from parents and carers.

"It's about the right support, in the right place, at the right time – that's absolutely what we're trying to achieve."

Sinead Mooney, cabinet member for adult social care, said: "I can see how people coming to use the facility will be very settled and very happy here, and the location is great – you've got facilities right on the doorstep that people can use and access.

"It's fantastic to see this place up and running."

Jean, whose daughter has used the centre, said she had been able to drop her at Emily Lodge and "not panic".

"The life of having a young adult with disabilities – or abilities, whichever way you want to go – is absolutely exhausting, so to have a few hours, a few days, a few nights, is irreplaceable" she said.

Places in the centre will be allocated by the authority.

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