People who use a hydrotherapy pool in Dundee have called for better staffing provision.
The council-run pool at the White Top Centre on Perth Road had been dogged with heating and maintenance problems on and off since May.
The pool was fully operational throughout December but service users are still concerned there are not enough attendants to provide cover for staff absences.
However, Dundee City Council said staffing at the centre is very specialised, so suitable cover can be difficult to get.
The Inclusion Group charity for people with disabilities and additional support needs sends service users to the pool.
Manager Laura Scott said there had been problems for at least six months.
“There’s staff problems and repairs at the pool which means people who need hydrotherapy are missing out,” she said.
“We got a letter in October saying, as there were staffing issues, it had been shut.
“It’s doing damage to people because they are not getting the therapy they need. The pool needs to be up and running on a regular basis.”
The mother of one pool user who has a brain injury told The Courier his mobility is not as good when sessions have been missed.
“I notice a big difference in his flexibility,” she said. “He is a lot more difficult for me to dress.
“It’s become obvious there isn’t any cover. It’s the only thing he gets I don’t have to pay towards. I would much rather pay for it and it be reliable.”
Councillor Lesley Brennan has been in touch with the social work department over the situation.
“We want to flag it up that this is an important part of people’s care plan and make sure they get the therapy,” she said.
“People’s muscles can waste. I think people understand if there’s something wrong but if someone’s off on holiday, surely there needs to be better provision?”
A spokeswoman for the council said: “The pool is now open following work last year to deal with technical issues,” but added that, because of the requirements, staff provision can be difficult.