Staff Battle to Save Care Home

The planned closure of several care homes in Lincolnshire has sparked anger from staff. Staff at Linelands Care Home in Nettleham, say their main concern is the elderly people who spend their days there. Potentially eight care homes may be closed and new provision set up.

There are no firm details of what can be expected as future plans are being developed with significant consultation with communities and the families of those being cared for. however, Lincolnshire Councty Council has said is that its vision is for new housing schemes which could include self-contained apartments with en-suite bedrooms with care support on site, communal areas and social facilities such as shops, cafes and pubs. Other big plans are specialised dementia centres. New facilities would be delivered in partnership with 'independent sector providers'.

UNISON representative Mr. Mick Barnshaw who is fighting against these changes on behalf of staff, has raided his concerns. Local parliamentarian, Mr. Edward Leigh MP, visited Linelands yesterday.

Mr Barnshaw told staff:

"We need to be clear, purpose-built care homes would be an obvious improvement for everyone.

"However, a building without quality staff to give first class care is not in anybody's interests.

"On current information provided by Lincolnshire County Council, it is undecided who will administer the care – public or private. It is strongly indicated it will be private.

"There is at present, a real lack of detail on the way forward.

"We need a thorough and detailed assessment, not just a glossy DVD and we need to have everyone involved."

A consultation meeting will take place at Nettleham Junior School, Mill Hill on Monday, 11th January 2010 starting at 6pm.