Sensory services retained as Llanidloes day centres merge

Adult day services in Llanidloes are set to be reshaped, with Powys County Council confirming that provision at Maes y Wennol and Sylfaen will be merged into a single through-age service.

The move follows a cabinet decision earlier this year to overhaul day opportunities across the county, shifting to a locality-based model to increase independence and community involvement for adults who use the services.

As part of the changes, the council has confirmed that the sensory and outdoor facilities at Sylfaen will be retained and incorporated into the new Llanidloes Day Opportunities service. These include the gardens, polytunnel, kitchen, bathroom and sensory spaces. The day centre at Maes y Wennol will continue to operate as normal with no changes to its opening times.

The council said the decision to retain part of the Sylfaen building followed further engagement with the local community, following concerns about losing the existing sensory provision.

Some adults who live independently have already seen their support shift into the community through supported living providers. The council said this change began in October and early reviews have been “positive”.

With less space now required at Sylfaen, a local community group has expressed interest in renting the unused part of the building. The council is considering the request.

Cllr Pete Roberts, Cabinet Member for a Caring Powys, said the revised plan aims to protect key services while introducing a more flexible approach.

“The changes in Llanidloes combine new opportunities for those who will benefit from them with protecting the provision for those with greater need,” he said. “Addressing concerns about the loss of the sensory provision has been central to the decision to retain part of the building rather than move the equipment to Maes y Wennol.”