The decision to close a centre for disabled children was actually made six months before it was announced.

Although parents and staff were told in June by letter that the centre was due to close, the decision was actually made in December last year.

It is said that the announcement was postponed so as not to influence the county and general elections earlier this year.

The letter sent on behalf of Herts Valleys Chief Executive Kathryn Magson said: “While the NHS has been funding this service, Hertfordshire County Council has a statutory duty to provide a range pf short breaks services. Funding of respite care was discretionary, and challenged by our auditors around NHS ‘use of resources’.

“Herts Valley CCG is ceasing its funding for Nascot Lawn from 31 October 2017, following a decision taken at its Investment Committee meetings of 1 December 2016 and 19 January 2017.

“HVCCG notified HCC in early February 2017, and formally notified Hertfordshire Community Trust in April in line to meet our contractual requirements to provide six months’ notice.”

The lack of consultation and the detached manner with which the decision was made has been criticised by councillors.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Mark Watkin said:"This decision defies understanding. These children and their families face some of the greatest challenges that life can present.

“To suggest that they only have social issues is an insult. These families cannot function without the support of Nascot Lawn.”

Nascot Councillor Mark Hofman said: “Giving parents only four months’ notice that they would lose a much loved service, and not consulting with them or the county council over the closure before making a decision, let alone an announcement, is an absolute disgrace.

“It is beggar’s belief how some of the most vulnerable people in our society have been treated by our local NHS, the fact that many of the 78 families carrying on under the weight of such enormous responsibility and support their children through all adversity is very largely due to the respite they receive from the dedicated medical staff at Nascot Lawn.

“To pull the rug from under their feet in this manner is truly horrendous.”