Residents face uncertain future as homes to close

Bield says it is ‘last resort option’ for three Fife homes

Dozens of frail and elderly people across Fife have been left in the dark about their longer-term living arrangements after one of Scotland’s leading care home providers confirmed plans to close premises.

Edinburgh-based Bield Housing said financial pressures have forced the closure of 12 properties in seven local authority areas.

Three care homes in Fife will be axed within nine months. Bield said it would work with residents to make alternative arrangements.

Twenty-four people living in Finavon Court in Glenrothes, 14 at Grants Bank in Dunfermline and 12 in Gillie Court, also in Dunfermline, are likely to be forced into a move as a result, although no closures will take place until July to allow for talks over possible transfers elsewhere to take place.

No homes in Dundee, Perth or Angus have been earmarked for closure.

Brian Logan, chief executive of Bield, said: “The decision is very much a last resort option. We have carefully considered a wide range of options to continue delivery of these services, however we have been unable to find a solution that will be viable in the longer term.

“We are aware of the serious impact these changes will make to people who use our services, their families and our staff.”

He added that consultation meetings will be held “to discuss what options are available to those affected – with the aim of minimising the impact as far as possible”.

Fiona Mckay, head of strategic planning, performance and commissioning at Fife’s health and social care partnership, said the continued care and welfare of residents was “paramount”, and that it would work with Bield.

She said: “All new placements within the Bield Care Homes in Fife have ceased with immediate effect... We are in close communication with Scottish Care and COSLA who are monitoring the position at a national level.” Shirley-anne Somerville, MSP for Dunfermline, said: “I have now written to Bield to confirm, as a matter of urgency, what their immediate plans are for Gillie Court and Grants Bank.

“My heart goes out to the residents and staff of Gillie Court and Grants Bank at this uncertain time.”

The Courier has learned discussions with another provider about potentially taking over Finavon Court in Glenrothes have started (see story right).

Glenrothes councillor Fiona Grant spoke of her sorrow at the news of Finavon Court’s impending closure.

“I know members and officers alike will do what they can to support everyone affected,” she said.

Bield’s Finavon Court care home in Glenrothes is facing closure.