Council responds to Mudlarks funding row

Hertfordshire County Council have issued a statement following claims that popular charity Mudlarks might be forced to close due to a funding cut.

In a statement to Discover Hertford, a spokesperson said: "We are currently engaging with community-based organisations looking at the way we provide services for adults with disabilities. As part of this process we set out some draft proposals and shared these with community organisations for comment and are considering feedback. Engagement is ongoing and we are especially keen to discuss and receive information from organisations about any potential impact these changes may have. "

"Mudlarks is not grant funded by Hertfordshire County Council but they are funded to support individuals that attend their service. They have concluded that one possible impact of our proposals is a reduction of funding. We will be meeting with Mudlarks in the next few weeks to discuss further. We are committed to understanding and reducing the impact of any change on individuals who are currently attending Mudlarks. We are sure Mudlarks will be part of our future ambition to support people to link and contribute to their communities."

Mudlarks director Vic Hobson said: "Mudlarks are providing exactly the service that HCC want to support. We are community based, providing healthy activities, training and employment. I have been told that they will not be cutting any of our funding and that they fully support the outstanding work that we do. I am so relieved, and amazed by the support that the Hertford community has shown us. Thank you to everyone who voiced their concerns and offered to fund raise for us. We are staying and we love you all!"