The sudden closure of CALM, a popular yoga studio with branches in Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire, and Derby, has left both staff and customers reeling. The studio announced its shutdown citing "ongoing health challenges" as the primary reason behind the decision, which was made with "heavy hearts." This unexpected move has sparked a wave of concern and frustration among those who frequented the studio, and attempts to contact the owners, Mr. and Mrs. Davies, for comment have been unsuccessful.
Former employees and customers have voiced their distress over the closure. Buckso Dhillon, who worked at the Burton location, expressed her frustrations about financial issues with the studio. She noted that she "had to chase [her] invoice every single month" and is currently owed £700 by the business. Furthermore, she doubts she will recover the £170 she paid herself. Dhillon emphasized her motivation to speak out, stating, "It's the people that haven't got a voice that I feel I've got to speak up for."
The impact of the closure extends beyond financial concerns. Customers like Cerys Chaderton-Fears fondly recall the sense of community that CALM fostered, describing it as a "safe space." However, many are now left grappling with uncertainty. A customer who wished to remain anonymous shared that they had developed personal relationships through the yoga classes and are now incensed with the situation, fearing they will not receive any refunds.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Staffordshire Police have received numerous complaints regarding the studio's abrupt closure. The concerns have been forwarded to Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime. This course of action highlights the gravity of the situation for many affected parties.
Local leaders are stepping in to offer support. Linda Cunningham, a member of Burton Parish Council, is actively assisting customers who have been impacted by CALM's closure. She remarked on the emotional toll this event has taken on the community, stating, "People are traumatised, their hearts are broken."
The studio's website indicated that the decision to close was not made lightly. Despite this assurance, numerous foreign workers and local patrons find themselves in a precarious position, unsure of how to proceed.
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