Vital Kirkcaldy community hub re-starts - but no date for return of seniors
After five months of reduced operations due to coronavirus restrictions, Linton Lane Centre in Templehall is finally opening its doors to let some of its classes resume.
The future of the much loved community centre – part of Kirkcaldy for over 50 years – looked bleak at the start of lockdown.
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Hide AdIt was revealed that, without financial support, it might have had to close its doors as social distancing rules meant that it had to cancel all of its programmes.
But, a heroic campaign raised £18,000 to secure its future - thanks to the dedicated staff, people and businesses who donated, along with scores of other supporters.
However, as the centre slowly returns to normal with SAMH, Stages Dance School, Karate and Happy Hoppers staring classes this week and next, concerns are being raised as to when its senior groups can return.
Mandy Henderson, centre manager said: “SAMH and Stages are back, Happy Hoppers start back next Monday and karate classes will be starting back on the tenth of this month for non-contact training.
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Hide Ad"This is great news, but we are concerned that we still cannot open for our senior groups.
“We have been told to follow the government guidelines regarding when they are allowed back, but they are very confusing as to who, and what, can open and when.
"We need answers over when we can bring them back. We are doing everything that we can to make sure our seniors are not totally isolated by delivering lunches and gift baskets, and just popping round for a cup of coffee and a chat.
"They need the chatter of the centre. It is a big part of their lives - a lot of our seniors live by themselves and are facing extreme loneliness.
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Hide Ad"Winter is just around the corner and it will be getting dark earlier, can you imagine not seeing anyone for five months and having to close your curtains at five o'clock – we are really concerned for their mental health well being.”