Families in Kingston have been left "distraught" as an adult day centre for people with learning disabilities is facing closure.

Hft Surrey, also known as Springfield Resource Centre, in New Malden, could shut in October due to financial challenges.

A total of 1,440 people have signed a Change.org petition opposing the proposed closure, claiming the "abrupt decision" was made without prior consultation or proper notice.

The petition says the announcement has caused "dread and concern" among users and their families, who are now facing an uncertain future.

Learning disability charity Hft, which runs the centre and other branches across England, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) it is exploring options which could allow Hft Surrey to stay open.

A spokesperson said the charity has been forced to review the future of the centre as the social care sector is gripped by major challenges, including persistent underfunding, staff shortages and rising demand.

'More than just support'

The petition calls for the centre to be saved so that it continues to be a "safe, nurturing and empowering space for its users".

It says: "The closure doesn't only represent a physical loss of venue, it devastates a vibrant, supportive environment where individuals with learning disabilities thrive socially and emotionally.

"The staff at Springfield Centre are exceptional, contributing tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all the users. They provide more than just support, they offer dignity, kindness, and a sense of belonging that every individual deserves.

"Losing the centre not only affects these invaluable employees but also the community that relies so heavily on their care and dedication."

Hft Surrey supports more than 140 people with learning disabilities across South London, including Kingston, Surbiton, Chessington, New Malden and Sutton.

The centre offers activities on weekdays, including creative and educational courses, while users gain work experience in the canteen and enjoy its accessible garden.

Another petition launched by Kingston Independent councillors, who are part of Kingston Independent Residents Group (KIRG), says the centre is, for many users, "one of the few places where they are fully seen, supported and valued".

The petition urges Hft to scrap its proposals to close the centre, while demanding Kingston Council steps in to help save it.

It says: "We have heard directly from families who are distraught at the sudden news of the closure, many of whom were given no prior warning. One petitioner described how the centre has given her brother a sense of purpose and structure that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

"She, like so many others, is now left wondering what happens next – and who will pick up the pieces. We believe this closure cannot go ahead without full and transparent consultation with the people it affects."

'A crisis gripping social care providers'

A Hft spokesperson told the LDRS it is communicating with users, their families and staff to ensure they are supported while a decision is made.

The spokesperson said: "We haven't stepped into this position at Springfield lightly, decisions of this nature are incredibly challenging for all involved. We are continuing to work closely with our commissioners, colleagues, those who draw on our support and their families to find a positive solution.

"However, the crisis gripping social care providers – including the restriction of funding to local authorities – has made it an increasingly difficult space in which to operate.

"These challenges are well documented in our annual Sector Pulse Check report – which provides a snapshot of the financial health of the social care sector, based on responses from more than 200 small, medium, and large adult social care providers.

"Faced with ongoing and systemic challenges, compounded by an ageing population, increasing demand for support, a limited workforce supply, and persistent underfunding, adult social care providers are continuing to operate in 'survival mode', sprinting just to stay afloat and being forced to make difficult decisions to survive."

They added: "Despite these challenges that affect the sector, including Hft, we remain committed to exploring every viable option that could enable Springfield to continue providing its essential service.

"While we cannot guarantee an outcome at this stage, we remain in constructive conversations with all of our stakeholders and these form an important part of our decision-making."

A Kingston Council spokesperson said the authority will continue to update residents so they feel safe and supported during this period. They added: "This is a fast developing situation and the council is in regular contact with Hft as we explore all options to continue to deliver the service including at Springfield Resource Centre.

"We understand that these services are important and that this has proved to be unsettling for both residents who draw on care and support, and their families. We are committed to continuing to prioritise working closely with residents and their families at this time."

Hft expects to issue an update on the future of the centre in the coming days.