The future of two care homes in Cumbria will be discussed by councillors this week – but it has been stressed that no decision has been made.
Westmorland & Furness Council is reviewing the futures of Applethwaite Green Care Home in Windermere and Grisedale Croft in Alston.
Its cabinet will meet on Tuesday to discuss the homes.
A report to councillors said Applethwaite Green Care Home’s building was functionally obsolete and financially unsustainable.
It said the home had been operating at a reduced capacity of residents due to longstanding recruitment challenges, high agency reliance and an inability to meet modern regulatory standards.
The report said: “Bedrooms are below the required minimum size and no scope to provide en suite or dementia friendly facilities without significant investment.
“The home has some of the highest costs across all care services homes – including one of the highest costs per resident, the highest agency cost per occupied bed, and the second highest forecast cost per available bed – making it financially unsustainable.”
Earlier this week, the report was available publicly for anyone to read. However, it has now been moved into a restricted part of the cabinet’s agenda.
Restricted – or Part II – agenda items often relate to information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, including the authority holding that information. it means the public or press are not allowed to hear the debate.
Westmorland & Furness Council issued a statement about the homes.
It said: “We recognise that reports about our considerations around the future of two local care homes will be concerning for residents, their families and staff.
“At its meeting next week, cabinet will consider two reports setting out whether to proceed to consultation on the future of the two homes. No decisions have been taken at this stage.
“Our priority is, and will continue to be, the wellbeing of residents and the support of staff. Anyone affected will be kept informed as the process progresses, and residents and employees will continue to receive appropriate support throughout.
“While we are unable to comment further ahead of the cabinet meeting, we want to reassure people that no outcomes have been predetermined and all relevant factors will be carefully considered.”
