AS a previous resident of Freda Eddy Court in Kidderminster I was surprised at the tone of your piece about its closure (Shuttle/Times and News, June 2).

Although it was innovative when built in the 1970s, Freda Eddy Court as a building is outdated and no longer suitable for people with disabilities.

It certainly allowed little opportunity for privacy. Its original purpose was to enable disabled people to take a stepping stone towards life in the community. Although many of us passed through its doors successfully, we had to spend years rather than months waiting for suitable housing, which meant that residents often became institutionalised - exactly the opposite of the desired effect.

Over the past five years, all current and ex- residents, relatives, staff members and community organisations have been aware that closure has been a consideration, and have been extensively consulted about the service offered, through a series of proposals over the future of Freda Eddy Court, and possible alternative provision.

We were also made aware that this unit cost over £400,000 per year to run, for (I understand) three or four residents - money which would be made available for other, more suitable services for a greater number of disabled people, we have been told.

People who acquire disabilities, or disabled children striking out on their own often need a great deal of help to establish their new lives.

I believe that they can be helped to do this with the right support in their own accommodation, in the community, rather than living in a ghetto.

And politicians who jump on every potential bandwagon for the sake of self-promotion could at least try to find out the facts, and talk to the people who are personally involved in disability issues, before pontificating to the rest of us.

SIMON HENG

Chairman, Worcestershire Association of Service Users,

Rifle Range Road

Kidderminster