Leonard Cheshire puts 17 care homes up for sale in ‘difficult decision’

Leonard Cheshire is to put 17 of its care home up for sale, as it makes some ‘difficult decisions’ about some of its services.

The move from the disability charity, which operates a total of 154 services across the country, will impact homes in Leeds, Sheffield, Calderdale and York, as the company searches for another care provider to step in and take over.

The charity was set up by a former RAF pilot after the Second World War and now wishes to reach ‘significantly more disabled people’, after the sale of the 17 homes.

Story continues below

Advertisement

Homes effected include Champion House in Leeds, White Windows in Sowerby Bridge, Alne Hall near York, Kenmore in Cleckheaton and Mickley Hall in Sheffield.

A spokesperson from Leonard Cheshire said that the properties were not in the right places with easy access to community amenities and scope to grow, with all funds raised from the sale due to be invested in the provision of UK community, residential and outreach services.

A spokesperson said: “In 2018 all charities must continue to challenge themselves to make a bigger difference.

“Leonard Cheshire has set out to reach significantly more disabled people.

“To make this ambition a reality we have had to make some difficult decisions about some of our services.

“A small minority of our properties are not in the right places with easy access to community amenities and with scope to grow. Other providers are better placed to make long-term investment in these services.

“There is huge unmet need across the country in the support that is available to enable disabled people to live as independently as possible, whatever their ability. Leonard Cheshire must be at the heart of building a more inclusive society.

“All funds raised from this sale will be invested in the provision of UK community, residential and outreach services.

“We know this is a difficult and worrying time for many, including the residents and their families, and we will be supporting them throughout this process. The continuity and quality of support and the welfare of all residents is our top priority during this period as we look to secure a new provider.”