A centre which offers vital support to those with dementia is set to close after losing thousands of pounds a month.

The team at the Age UK day centre in Lyminge, near Folkestone, say they “simply cannot sustain” the monthly losses of between £15,000 and £34,000.

As such, the Station Road site will shut, and services will move to the Hythe branch, five miles away.

Bosses say transport will still be provided to service users.

A statement said: “Unfortunately, the Lyminge site has been operating at a monthly deficit, and ongoing financial pressures have made it unsustainable to keep it open.

“Despite support from the council, the rise in bills has become too much.

“We appreciate that this may cause concern amongst older people based in Lyminge and want to reassure them that we are looking into options to support them.

“They remain our priority, and we strongly believe the money saved will be better used to enhance our overall provision and services.

“This decision is not easy, but we believe that by working together, we can ensure that essential services for older people continue in our community.

“We ask that everyone remain respectful of our staff and volunteers as we navigate this challenging time. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.”

The branch in Lyminge has been offering dementia support and advice, day care for social activities, fresh meals, and community services since 2009.

The charity rents the site from Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) but has seen the price increase by £5,000 annually.

This is on top of other rising bills, such as maintenance fees, including lift servicing, fire alarms, and general upkeep.

Bosses also explained the need to provide competitive wages, which has become increasingly challenging with rising national insurance and minimum wage costs.

One job will be lost as a result of the closure.

Dementia day services currently provided at Lyminge will move to Sanford House in Stade Street, Hythe, which offers “a bigger space for older people, their families and carers wishing to use these services”.

The move will not impact the cafe or charity shop already based at the neighbouring centre, and transport will continue to be offered at the existing rate for service users.

The charity has another site in Ashford.

A spokesperson for Age UK added: “We regularly communicate our plans with our service users, but if local older people have further concerns, they can contact 01303 269602 or email admin@ageukhla.org.uk.”

The Lyminge building will now be turned into homes.

A spokesperson for FHDC said: “Age UK was not subject to any rent increases in over 10 years. We were informed about the possibility of a relocation of services in September of this year during discussions about their lease, which was due to expire in January 2031.

“This decision was based on a “number of factors”. The council fully supports the excellent work of Age UK and continues to have a good working relationship with the organisation.

“The property will be converted back to four much-needed affordable dwellings in Lyminge that will be used to house local people on the waiting list.”

The date of the closure of the Lyminge site is not yet known.