East Kilbride Dementia Carers day care centre will close by the end of today until further notice.
The lifeline service, based at Pine Crescent in Greenhills, announced it will shut temporarily for the health and safety of its service users, carers, staff and volunteers.
The move comes after the news all mainstream day care centres are to close from Friday.
EK Dementia Carers Group co-ordinator Brian Doig said the charity will be exploring the option of telephone and Internet support in an effort to reduce isolation meantime.
He said: "As much as we have and are continuing to take every precaution possible to keep providing care and support to those in need, not following Government advice to promote social distancing could be risky and seen as irresponsible.
"It could be putting service users, carers, staff and volunteers at risk unnecessarily and potentially contribute to keeping the ongoing situation alive.
"With cases of Covid-19 now confirmed in East Kilbride, we feel we must take every measure possible to respond in a measured and responsible manner.
"For that reason, we will temporarily close our centre following day care on Thursday. We will be exploring the option of telephone and Internet support to reduce isolation in the meantime.
"We will review this decision on an ongoing basis with a view to resuming services as soon as we are advised that it is safe to do so."
Staff and volunteers are being advised to adhere to the policy of social distancing, or if in a high-risk category, to self-isolate.
Brian added: "Closing the centre for any length of time will not only have an impact upon those relying on our service, but with fundraising events already cancelled, cost our charity much needed income.
"We currently have reserves to fall back on in the immediate future which will hopefully see us come through this crisis.
"It is undoubtedly a challenge but manageable with commitment, hard work and the support of the community.
"In so many ways this has been a tough decision to make as we exist to support people, but we believe it to be the correct one to protect those we are responsible for and responsible to."
This December will see the group reach its 30th anniversary.
If you have any comments or questions regarding the closure contact Brian on 07919 367 790.
