Councillors challenge cabinet decision to close two OSJCT care homes

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A challenge has been mounted to halt the planned closure of two OSJCT care homes in Gloucestershire.

A cross-party group of opposition councillors has lodged a challenge to the closure of Wyatt House (pictured) and Southfields care home in Stroud, GloucestershireLive reported.

Lib Dem leader Paul Hodgkinson said: “It is appalling that this decision was taken without proper consultation with residents.  As such I will work with my fellow opposition councillors to ensure this decision is called in so the recommendations can receive proper scrutiny.”

The plans to close the two facilities were unanimously approved by the council’s cabinet.

Councillor Roger Wilson said the challenge “adds uncertainty to staff and residents”.

He said: “I am sorry to see councillors using political means to delay this decision, which is going to add to the uncertainty staff and residents face.

“We have acted on the advice of the independent charity that runs these homes, that they aren’t fit for purpose.

“We make no apologies for wanting high standards of care for older people in our county – even when that leads to hard choices in the short term.”

OSJCT CEO Dan Hayes said: “We recognise that there is due process to be followed in these situations. People have a right to raise concerns and to have those concerns addressed. We also recognise what a deeply worrying experience a potential home closure can be for those that live or work in the service affected. We will now work very hard to maintain stability at both homes and to keep things as normal as possible. It’s imperative we all work hard to minimise any period of uncertainty and our hope is that a decision on the future is made swiftly so that we can all plan for the future.

“I’d like to pay tribute to my colleagues at both homes who are putting their own anxieties to one side in order to provide consistent and positive experience for our residents. As ever we are in their debt.”

The post Councillors challenge cabinet decision to close two OSJCT care homes appeared first on Care Home Professional.

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