A CHARITY that supports people with terminal illnesses has reassured the public that its services will not be affected by a dispute over the way it is managed.

Ten volunteers from Hospice Homecare, which is based in Northallerton, are unhappy with the management of the charity and called for a meeting to be held.

It took place in the Friarage Hospital's Recreation Hall on Wednesday night.

A vote had been planned on the motion that "the meeting has confidence in the management of Hospice Homecare by the Executive Committee".

But the vote did not takeplace, with members agreeing to pursue a course of mediation instead.

A statement released by the charity yesterday said: "Hospice Homecare is a local charity which provides support to people who are diagnosed with life-limiting illness, enabling them to remain at home for longer.

"A special meeting was recently called by ten members to consider the management style. The meeting was chaired by Caroline Thornton-Berry, High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, and it was decided to pursue a process of mediation to resolve differences.

"Members were agreed that the overriding priority was the continuation of the excellent services provided by Hospice Homecare and the future development of new services."

The charity was set up in 1992 and is based at the Friarage Hospital. It has expanded over the years and has a large number of volunteers offering practical and emotional support to carers and patients, including a befriending service.

It works with the Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust (PCT).

A spokeswoman for the trust said: "The PCT has been encouraged by the commitment from Hospice Homecare to date under the new structure, and is happy with the way they are working to plans, such as recruiting more sitters and applying for National Care Standards Commission to be able to work as providers.

"The PCT has also reviewed Hospice at Home against the investment of funding and is satisfied that the spend is on what was agreed. The PCT considers that timely and appropriate support to patients is still of a high standard and there is no evidence to suggest otherwise."