PARENTS of severely disabled children have pleaded for the care home they rely on to remain open.

Mums and dads with youngsters at Alice House in Frenchay are desperate to see that the respite care provided there continues.

They have begged South Gloucestershire councillors to fight against plans to shut it down.

The social services department of the council is reviewing the home in Beckspool Road and could offer some of the 31 children who use Alice House alternative places at Church House, Kingswood.

Others would be left without any support and their families fear they would be without a weekly break, which they argue is imperative when looking after a seriously ill child.

Chris Duffy, whose daughter Jennifer is disabled, told last week's council meeting that families would fall apart if Alice House were to close.

He said: "It is a lifeline to us. The care and love provided there is second to none.

"It is inevitable that if Alice House closes, some families will have to do without respite care. It would put an intolerable strain on families.

"Parents would lose a much-needed break and time doing things with their other able-bodied children."

He added: "Continuity for our special children is absolutely vital and it takes a long time to settle them in a new environment.

"Do not underestimate the enormous upheaval for those children and their families if they have to move."

Manager Stephanie Bates said: "We at Alice House wish to remain open as a much-needed centre which provides a quality service. It is a haven for children and young adults."

She presented a petition, signed by 900 supporters, to keep the house open. The leaders of the council's three political parties were due to visit Alice House to inspect the services provided for themselves.

Council leader Cllr Neil Halsall said: "I know how incredibly important it is to have respite care to help families survive.

"I think most councillors want to find out more about it and we will be listening to everybody when we make those decisions."

Cllr Maggie Tyrell, executive member for social care, health and housing, said this week: "Parents are the best people to know what is good for their children.

"To entrust the care of those special children to anybody else they have to have absolute trust in that organisation.

"While Alice House is providing that service, the council should be sure it is available."

Council spokesman Mat Ree said: "Any changes will not adversely affect the service provision for parents or carers and children."

The issue will be discussed by the council's select committee in May - a final decision over the future of Alice House will be announced in June.