Derbyshire Council Confirms Closure of Care Homes and Day Centres

Derbyshire County Council’s new proposals include the closure of eight care homes and five day centres in Derbyshire. The council stated that a decrease in demand for conventional residential care facilities has occurred, as more individuals choose to stay in their own homes. Consequently, the council aims to redirect resources towards dementia care provision. Additionally, the council is addressing budget overruns within its social care departments and plans to implement £30 million in cuts to achieve financial stability. The proposed changes have faced opposition during a consultation period, with Members of Parliament and families expressing concerns about potential effects on the care of vulnerable individuals. According to the council, budgetary pressures stem from increased demand for adult and children’s social care services, alongside rising costs for fuel, energy, and materials. Over 1,700 individuals participated in the public consultation. The authority indicated its intention to prioritize the provision of community support beds. These beds offer a brief period of rehabilitation, frequently following hospitalizations, before individuals return home. Officials also noted that these beds can aid in preventing hospital admissions by assisting residents in recovery, rehabilitation, and returning home. Natalie Hoy, Cabinet member for adult care, stated: “All the research shows that people want to remain in their own homes for as long as possible which has led to a decline in demand for traditional residential care.” She added: “There’s also a growing number of people living with dementia, often supported by family carers or friends who work hard to look after them.” Hoy further explained: “Carers have told us they need consistent and regular support so we need to focus our resources on having the right options to support them. “This includes long-term specialist dementia care coupled with respite day and night breaks.” The subsequent care homes are scheduled for closure and sale: Bennerley Fields in Cotmanhay is slated for repurposing, to be utilized solely for community support beds. Additionally, the following dementia day centres are scheduled for closure: The following facilities are designated to remain operational: Although these will remain open, an additional consultation will take place regarding the future function of: The full cabinet is set to discuss these plans on November 14.