We, the undersigned, disagree with the proposal to close the School of Health and Social Care at University of Reading. - It comes at a time when qualified Social Workers are in short supply, leading to a lack of support and services to some of the most vulnerable members of the society. The course is not being closed due to the lack of interest in the courses but due to the University of Reading deciding that "As a research-intensive institution with an international reputation in many areas, we have to play to our strengths. This vision, embodied in our Corporate Plan, states that we will commit maximum resources to support areas of established academic strength, of emerging excellence and of comparative advantage". In contrast to this, is that currently University of Reading is ranked 23rd of 55 institutions that offer Social Work courses. In addition to this the university website describes that "We are proud of our long established and celebrated reputation at the University of Reading for the provision of Counselling training. Our tradition of academic and professional excellence in this field dates back to 1964, since which time the University has been a pioneer of counselling training in Britain. We continue to expand and are committed to preparing practitioners for the challenge of counselling work in today's world and to face the demands of the future" Similar statements are made about excellent training and commitment to Social Work training and Nursing courses. - It will also lead to a decrease in the availability of Post-Qualifying training for Social Workers, Counsellors and Nurses that is vital to maintain their Continuing Professional Development. - It will inevitably lead to job losses among the dedicated and knowledgeable staff, whose expertise will be lost to the local community. - The School of Health and Social Care has excellent links with the local community and service providers alike.

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