In news that will come to the relief of many, Kirklees Council has revealed that both of its dementia care homes that were earmarked for closure have been saved from the axe.
In October 2023, the council opened a public consultation on the future of Claremont House in Heckmondwike and Castle Grange, Huddersfield. The council had proposed that both care homes should close later this year with residents transferring to other homes in Kirklees.
Castle Grange and Claremont House are the only remaining council-run dementia care homes in Kirklees. Facing a budget shortfall of £47m and increasing demand for services, the council had proposed the closures to save over £1m in the next financial year.
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Following a 12-week consultation with residents of the homes, their families and members of the public, the council has now pledged to keep the homes open. The decision means none of the homes’ 42 residents will need to move and will continue to receive high quality care where they currently live.
Following approaches made to the council by independent sector operators, the council will explore potential opportunities to transfer the homes into the independent sector. The council will continue to operate the homes during this time, and thereafter if it is not successful in transferring them.
Cllr Cathy Scott, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “Claremont House and Castle Grange will remain open.
“I want to thank everyone who made their voice heard during the consultation. I understand how unsettling the last few months have been for residents of both homes and their families. I hope this announcement gives them some peace of mind.
“Social care is in crisis across the country. Demand for services far outstrips resources and councils are facing increasingly painful decisions.
“We have always argued that social care needs a long-term solution rather than short term, last minute, funding announcements that make planning very difficult. Despite this, we have always said that we would prioritise local people who need our help and support most within a very difficult financial position. By continuing to run the two care homes, whilst exploring alternatives to them being operated by the council, we believe we are staying true to that promise.”
Kirklees Council will publish its draft budget for 2024/25 on Monday 5 February 2024.
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