THE FATE of a building providing a vital service for homeless young people in Braintree is being decided today.

Essex County Council will decide whether 13 centres across Essex providing accommodation and services for those aged 16 to 24 should stay open.

A report by councillor Dick Madden, cabinet member for adults and children, suggested revenue spending on Housing Related Support be reduced by £1 million per year.

Campaigners at Braintree Foyer in St Michael's Road have been petitioning for months in fear cuts to the service would undo all the success.

Tanya Weston, 21, who used the Foyer when she was 19, said: "It's a frightening thought that in Braintree alone there are about 35 people who could be made homeless. It's really unsettling.

"We are all just very nervous about what the outcome will be but we are trying to remain hopeful.

"We have dedicated a lot of time towards this campaign and we hope our efforts will be enough. It will be a let down if it all falls through."

The service runs various classes, has a gym and holds regular presentations, as well as providing beds for residents who cannot live with family.

The contract for the Foyer is due for renewal in September and residents fear it could be at risk due to budget cuts.

The council will set up a 'quadrant-based' provision of services which will be 'outcome focused' and provide one clear point of call for people in need of help.

A petition on Change.Org to save the Braintree Foyer has 6,147 supporters.

Graham Butland, leader of Braintree Council and a member of Essex County Council’s cabinet, visited the foyer. He said the council is trying to target support, and it is a question of what is the best service.

The cabinet meeting is being held at 10am at Essex County Council's offices in Chelmsford.