Saitama Disability Facility to Be Abolished on April 1; Families of Users Forced Into Unwanted Transfers Say Move Is “Irresponsible”

By Barrier Free Japan

March 8 2026

SAITAMA – Families of users of a disability care facility in Kawaguchi are raising concerns as the center is set to close on April 1 despite many clients still lacking alternative placements, the Tokyo Shimbun reported on March 7.

The facility, known as “Seikatsu Kaigo Kijibato,” provides daytime services for people with disabilities, offering assistance with daily living while allowing users to take part in activities such as light production work. Many of those who attend the center have severe intellectual disabilities.

Families say the planned closure effectively forces users into transfers they do not want, and they have criticized the city’s decision to proceed with the shutdown as scheduled. Some described the move as “irresponsible,” questioning whether it is acceptable to close the facility without securing appropriate alternatives.

The center is operated under a designated management system by the city’s social welfare foundation. In June last year, the city submitted an ordinance to abolish the facility on April 1 together with another disability service site, “Kijibato Continuous Employment Support,” which is also run by the foundation.

City officials cited the rising cost of welfare programs as a reason for the closures. The annual designated management fees amount to roughly 4.04 million yen for the daily care facility and about 2.33 million yen for the employment support center. The ordinance was approved by the city assembly with backing from members of the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito.

Families opposed the plan, arguing that the time between the decision and the scheduled closure was too short to arrange suitable transfers. The city assembly also called on the municipal government to ensure it takes responsibility if alternative placements cannot be found before the shutdown.

In response, the city established a support team, with caseworkers providing consultations to users and their families as they search for new facilities.