Despite months of campaigning, protest marches and a petition signed by more than 9,000 people it was announced this week that The Limes in Dartford, alongside 10 other homes across the county, will close on August 10.
Under the plan, which also sees Manorbrooke in nearby Stone close, the council is set to save around £2million a year.
‘Prison’
Resident Alice Daley, 87, who has been at The Limes for eight years, said: “It is sad but also annoying. We have everything here – armchairs, baths, a library.
“We have written to the council, my son wrote telling them they should all be ashamed of themselves, but they ignored us. It is just about money to them.”
Diabetic Norma Paterson, 88, who attends on a daily basis, added: “I am full of pain. Sometimes I just want to come here, otherwise I am at home surrounded by four walls like a prison.
“It is not good enough they treat old people like this.”
The home employs 49 staff, homes nine residents permanently while catering for many more on a daily basis.
Staff have been offered the chance to apply for job opportunities elsewhere, or attend training, while elderly users will be transferred to alternative centres.
Lillian Doyle, 90, who uses the centre twice a week, said: “I am too old to be moved around like this. I have my friends here and we just don’t know what will happen now.”
Alternatives
Cllr Graham Gibbens, KCC cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Following the decision taken in January to close The Limes, officers have been actively working with those who use the service to make sure that alternative services are in place. For day services, they have been helping these individuals to choose alternatives that meet their needs.”
Manorbrooke Care Centre is to close on September 30 to be made into sheltered accommodation.
Source
http://www.gravesendreporter.co.uk
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