An Angus care home is facing the threat of closure as management seeks to balance the books.
Seaton Grove care home in Arbroath, which is one of three run by Angus Health and Social Care Partnership (AHSCP), is estimated to require an investment of £1million to bring it up to scratch.
A leaked report seen by The Courier argues the organisation, which includes Angus Council and NHS Tayside, faces a double whammy of financial constraint and steadily increasing demand.
The report concludes possible outcomes for the unit include closure, or handing it over to a private or third sector organisation.
Other options for the unit, which was built in the 1980s, include a reduction in provision offered and further analysis of care home arrangements in the county, or the development of an improvement plan.
A special Residential Review Group set up by the AHSCP has found the facility, which has a capacity for 48 residents with 10 respite places and a staff of 60, is not cost effective when compared to third and private sector cares homes, and that the gap cannot be closed by making internal efficiencies.
Angus South SNP MSP Graeme Dey criticised the move after being contacted by angry constituents.
He said: “I have been contacted by a number of families who have loved ones in Seaton Grove and who are very angry over the threat to the facility and question mark that has left hanging over the future care arrangements for their family members.
“I understand entirely why they feel that way.
“Why are residents, their families and the staff suddenly having this thrust upon them ?
“How we, as a society, look after our elderly and vulnerable citizens is hugely important. So why is it we handle care delivery in Angus in such a cack-handed way?
“The facilities issue at Seaton Grove didn’t just emerge. It had to have been known about for years, so where was the horizon scanning and forward planning?
“And all of this of course follows the poorly handled remodelling of home care services across the county.”
A spokesperson for Angus Health and Social Care Partnership: “Angus Health and Social Care Partnership is currently conducting a review of residential care provision for older people in Angus.
“The review is evaluating the quality of care provided and the suitability of our premises, as well as the effectiveness of our service delivery models and financial efficiency.
“As a part of this, the future of Seaton Grove is being considered, although it is important to state that no conclusions have been reached or decisions taken.
“Staff have been, and will continue to be, informed and updated in relation to this review process. AHSCP is also engaging with service users, their families, trade unions, elected members and other key stakeholders.
“Any final decision taken in relation to Seaton Grove and its service provision will be made by the Angus Integration Joint Board.”
A further update is expected next month.
