Having read your recent letters and articles regarding the John Bellany Centre [in Port Seton] and the management issues it is currently facing, I felt compelled to share my experience.

I’m 79 years old and a full-time carer for my husband, who has Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. I can honestly say that the John Bellany Centre is a lifeline to me.

Not only does it provide ‘me time’ to allow me a break, it also gives my husband the opportunity to meet people, take part in activities and go on outings. He looks forward to his visits there every week. Conversation is not always easy with him nowadays but I can guarantee that he will always praise the centre to the extent that it is the highlight of his week.

None of this would be possible without the care and attention the staff at the John Bellany Centre provide. They have been a great support to me and I have the comfort of knowing that my husband is in a safe, welcoming environment whilst he is there. I cannot express how grateful I am to everyone there for giving me these vital periods of respite whilst my husband is getting so much pleasure from attending the centre.

I know neither of us would have anywhere near the quality of life that we currently have if the John Bellany Centre was not there. Thank you to all the staff and long may it continue!

Isobel Johnston Links Road Port Seton