Council staff laughing because im trying to save the day centre staff from leaving us

brookse

Good evening, this is my first post. Ive been quite before for along time as I get scared posting. I am now struggling and looking for support or ways to see im not alone. My local council want to cut costs by opening a bidding for a voluntary sector to take over the day services and the council to move the staff. Of course this has made the clients (whom are my friends) and myself very anxious. It is hard to explain unless you are all happy for me to continue with finer details. 
we have had two big meetings with the council who are making these changes and last time they laughed at me because I wanted to voice record the meeting due to my struggles to remember, as long as others in the centre. I found this very discriminating but im not sure if it now. We have anoher big meeting tomorrow and I am scared but I know I need to stick up for other clients. 

woodbine

@brookse good evening and welcome to scope and well done on making your first post hope its the first of many, have you considered involving one or more of your local councillors (you should have three) ?

Jimm_Scope

Hi @brookse, I'm happy you felt comfortable enough to join in here. I know there are many people who just watch as they don't yet feel okay talking, I'm always glad when someone takes the step you've done. It's not always easy I know!

I find it a little disgraceful that they laughed at you. I understand if they were against it but laughing at you is very out of order.

Woodbine makes a good suggestion, have you tried reaching out to one of your local councilors to discuss with them how this will affect you and how you think it will affect the community? Perhaps your MP is one who responds to their constituents too?

MW123

Welcome brookse

I'm truly appalled by the council's behaviour, especially their laughter at clients during such a crucial and sensitive discussion. This kind of insensitivity and disrespect is entirely unacceptable. It's important that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, are treated with dignity and respect. Such behaviour is not only unprofessional but also deeply hurtful. I hope that your advocacy efforts and continued engagement will help rectify this situation and ensure that all voices are heard and respected.

It's essential to ensure transparency and accountability in such matters. It's entirely reasonable to request that meetings be minuted to keep an accurate record of what is discussed and decided. In fact, this can help everyone involved, to better understand and remember the details of the meetings. Good luck with your meeting

Albus_Scope

Welcome to the community @brookse! 
I'm really sorry they were so rude to you, I'd definitely be complaining. They should be there to empower and support the community, not make jokes at others expense.

How did your other meeting go?