Local Authority Affirms Decision to Divest Dementia Care Facilities

Kirklees Council’s councillors have affirmed their decision to divest two care homes to private operators, citing financial savings as the motivation. The council stated it is currently engaged in discussions with five distinct companies regarding the future management of Castle Grange, located in Huddersfield, and Claremont House, situated in Heckmondwike. The Labour-led administration anticipates finalizing this transition by April 2025. Opponents of the sale have expressed being “extremely concerned” about the proposal, raising anxieties regarding the welfare of current residents and the possibility of increased charges. Sisters Donna Mallinson and Collete Senior, whose mother, Elaine Blackburn, resides at Claremont House, have been advocating for the continued operation of these facilities for over a year. Subsequent to the council’s recent determination, Ms. Mallinson conveyed that she felt “extremely disappointed, disheartened, sad and very worried about our mum’s future.” She articulated: “[The council] can’t confirm the continuation of care with the new private owner and can’t confirm that the fees will stay the same.” She further added that “Those two things together could be life threatening to the residents as they are potentially forcing a move on the residents if they can’t afford the new fees.” Sarah Blagborough, whose mother, Janet, resides at Castle Grange, stated that when the authority declared in February that the two homes would not be closed, she believed it marked the beginning of a “relationship with Kirklees Council to make them viable, to keep them open and protect vulnerable residents.” She expressed apprehension that the council might not secure an operator capable of delivering care equivalent to what her mother currently receives, describing her situation as “a desperate situation.” Notwithstanding this decision, campaigners have indicated their resolve to persist in their efforts to maintain the two homes under municipal control. Furthermore, anxieties have been voiced concerning the employment prospects of staff at both care homes. Angela Waller, representing Unison, commented that the prospect of employment under a private provider was “filling the staff with dread,” as they were “worried about their pensions and terms and conditions.” Beverley Addy, the cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health, stated: “We know families of the residents in our care homes are understandably worried at this time of change.” She added: “As part of a previous consultation and the recent engagement exercise, we have continuously highlighted to residents that, should a transfer of ownership occur, residents will be able to remain in the homes where they live. This will allow continuity of care which is what families are most concerned about.” Addy continued: “Now, we will progress talks with interested providers to try to reach a final decision on a transfer. ” She concluded by saying: “And, as before, we have provided reassurances to families that discussions are only taking place with those providers who are interested in keeping both establishments as dementia care homes.” The council indicated that in the event a suitable operator cannot be identified, the matter would be referred back to the cabinet for additional deliberation.