Families’ plea over homes closure threat (From Echo)

Families’ plea over homes closure threat

12:02pm Friday 17th August 2012 in Southend By Chloe Chapman

COUNCILLORS should “have some heart” and save two closure-threatened care homes, residents’ relatives have urged.

Southend Council is looking at the future of Delaware House, in Maplin Way North, Shoebury , and Priory House, in Prittlewell Chase, Westcliff .

Officials claim the buildings are in dire need of modernisation, but the council may not be able to afford the work.

However, residents’ relatives are campaigning for the two homes to remain open.

Paul Nutkins, 75, spent 12 years caring for his wife, Dorothy, at their own home in Leigh after she was diagnosed with dementia.

When her condition deteriorated, she moved in at Delaware House, where she spent the last three years of her life.

Mr Nutkins said: “There aren’t really words to describe my feelings about what is happening. It’s just such a lovely home and would be a terrible shame if it were to close.

“The staff at Delaware are exceptional. “They were wonderful, both before and after my wife’s death.”

Options under consideration by the council include completely overhauling both homes, carrying out basic improvements, selling them to a private care firm, or simply closing them.

The wife of one Priory House resident, who asked not be named, fought back tears as she spoke of her fears for her husband who has been there for a year after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

She said: “It’s disgraceful that they are even considering closing it.

“I just hope the council has some heart and thinks about the residents, relatives and staff – the people it will really affect.”

The council has previously said a decision has yet to be made.

Simon Leftley, director of adult and community services, said: “We are looking at the right action for the long-term.

“As the care homes are getting older, they are, understandably, going to start needing some investment.

“If we did close our remaining homes, I’m absolutely confident we would still be able to provide a good level of care for the people of Southend.”

Comments are closed on this article.