DISABLED people in Corby who have stopped using a day centre because of increased charges will now be able to meet at another community venue. The Stephenson Way Community Centre committee has said 12 people from Stone House Day Centre in the town can use its facilities.

Social service charges increased earlier this year — which is why some disabled people are not using the Stone House centre.

Stephenson Way Community Centre has just undergone a £200,000 revamp which was designed with disabled users in mind. George McKay, chairman of the Stone House Association, which represents the day centre’s users, said: "We feel happy these people now have somewhere where they can socialise. The charges have been driving people back into isolation, which is wrong."

Stephenson Way centre chairman Mike Quarrinton said: "The committee is happy for the group to come here and use our facilities. We understand their needs and are pleased they using the centre."

The county council increased charges on a range of services including day care and transport. The group has decided it will hire the Stephenson Way centre for one afternoon a week. The charges are likely to work out at less than £2 per person for the session, this compares to the £28 some users are charged for two days at Stone House.

Mr McKay said he would continue to fight for the county council to reduce the charges.