A MENTAL health drop-in centre which helped re-integrate people into the community has closed its doors for the last time.

Roding House, in Victoria Road, Buckhurst Hill is now shut, with the father of one service user accusing the county council of putting vulnerable people “Out on the street” despite promises of a smooth transition of services.

William Long, of Lushes Road, Loughton, whose son Michael attended Roding House for courses and activities said: “They haven't said what will replace it. I spoke to the lady in charge and she said: 'We'll try to get them back to work with a job.' That's literally it. They haven't really got a plan B.

“They'll end up with a penny whistle and a colouring book. They've been robbed. That centre was three days a week and it was very important. They've just been turned out on the street.”

Jim Marchant, of Lancaster Drive, Loughton, used the services at Roding House, when he was recovering from a mental breakdown.

He said: “I used it before when it was the Loughton Clubhouse. There are some very severely affected people. I think it's outrageous. Those people need somewhere. I've a friend there who's out of a job. He's a user but he also helps out. He can't work because of an illness.”

Mr Marchant said there had also been cuts to Loughton Spanners, the social club for former patients he attends in St John's Church Hall.

“There's no more Sundays, and a lot of people used to go for Sunday lunch,” he said.

Essex County Council has said there will still be regular activities for former users of Roding House, but not from a dedicated building.

A spokesman said: “The main focus of the service will be working with groups and individuals to link them into mainstream activities in the community, with support, and promote social inclusion.”