Closure threat still hanging over The Usual Place

A DUMFRIES charity which does “invaluable” work helping people with additional support needs could collapse within a matter of months, it has been warned. The Usual Place, which plays a vital role in assisting young people with disabilities and additional needs to get into the world of work, has run into financial trouble and needs emergency support. The community cafe is a social enterprise, which has been running for ten years on Academy Street, and is highly valued for offering training, employment and personal development opportunities. Dumfries and Galloway Council has been offering support, but it’s emerged that more needs to be done to prevent The Usual Place from closing its doors. A rallying call was made by councillors at last week’s education, skills and community wellbeing committee after an updated report was tabled underlining the precarious position The Usual Place is now in. Annandale North Councillor Carolyne Wilson said: “I’m quite disappointed with this report, having moved this motion back in February asking for an urgent report, and what support could be provided to ensure the long term future of The Usual Place – which provides a vital service. “I know, having met with Craig from The Usual Place as recently as yesterday, that they appreciate the support they have received from the council. “But with the financial difficulties they are still facing, the trustees will be making a decision regarding their future this side of Christmas on whether or not they’ll be able to remain open. “What additional support can be given to them?” Annandale North Councillor Gail Macgregor added: “I want to completely agree with Councillor Wilson’s comments and reinforce them. “I don’t think we should be naive. The Usual Place will never be self-sustaining because of the nature of the service that it delivers, but the value that it delivers to its users cannot be underestimated. I want to see them as supported as much as we can. “I’d just like to be assured that we are going to continue to do all we can to support them in any way that we can – because their work is invaluable.” Committee chair, Lochar Councillor Tracey Little, replied: “I think we all agree with that.” Lynne Burgess, the council’s employability, skills and partnerships manager, explained that efforts are being made to secure the future of The Usual Place. She told councillors: “Plans are still ongoing to support the long-term sustainable nature of The Usual Place. “There’s a deficit in this financial year, which we are striving to overcome first of all. “But the real thrust of the work is being led by South of Scotland Enterprise and Inspiring Scotland in the interests of trying to streamline the number of people that are working with Craig and his team at The Usual Place. “So, there is a partnership effort going into support them.”