A pioneering brain injury unit in the Lake District is likely to close because it is not financially sustainable following the Covid pandemic.
Calvert Reconnections, part of the Lake District Calvert Trust charity, is a 10-bed rehabilitation facility near Keswick.
The trust, which has announced the closure proposal today, said its other centres – Calvert Lakes and Calvert Stables would continue to operate as normal, with some restructuring.
Consultation with employees opened today.
The trust said: “It has unfortunately become clear that Calvert Reconnections is not attracting enough clients on a consistent basis to make it financially sustainable for the charity.
“The planned opening and establishment of Calvert Reconnections in 2020 was severely impacted by the pandemic.
“Since it opened, the centre has suffered from volatility in numbers of participant bookings, and, since March 2024 there has been a significant reduction in occupancy, making this proposed action necessary.
“Since reopening post-pandemic, the trust has been using the charity’s reserves to support the new Calvert Reconnections service and re-establish existing services at Calvert Lakes and Calvert Stables.
“The resulting depletion in financial reserves has made today’s proposed action necessary.
“Trustees are confident that the proposed new structure of the Lake District Calvert Trust will be financially sustainable and secure the future of the Lake District Calvert Trust for years to come.”
Chair of the board of trustees, Martin Mullin said: ‘In making this difficult decision, the trustees were mindful of the charitable objects of the trust which are to enable people with any disability, together with their families and friends, to achieve their potential through the challenge of outdoor adventure in the countryside.
“These changes are being proposed to ensure that the Lake District Calvert Trust operates for many years to come. Our immediate focus is now on supporting our employees through the process of consultation.”
The Lake District Calvert Trust provides services to meet the needs of people with a range of disabilities, including those with most profound disabilities and complex needs.
The trust said the proposed closure of Calvert Reconnections and restructure of the remaining organisation was expected to result in short term financial pressure and it would be appealing to its supporters and benefactors during this challenging time.
