A closure-threatened Glenrothes care home operated by Bield has been given a lifeline. A protest was held outside Holyrood to save Finavon Court.

Finavon Court operator in talks with Kingdom Homes

A closure-threatened Glenrothes care home has been granted a lifeline, it has emerged.

Finavon Court operator Bield has confirmed it is in negotiations with Kingdom Homes about the prospect of selling the property in the town’s Pitteuchar area.

Bield announced in October it intended to close the complex as part of its withdrawal from the care home market, a move that prompted outcry from residents and placed several jobs at risk.

However, while no confirmation of any deal is expected before the end of the year, the company has said it is optimistic an agreement can be reached.

Charlie Dickson, director of housing and care services at Bield, said: “We are very aware of the serious impact of the closures of our care homes.

“That is why, when we had initial interest from potential buyers for a number of the homes, we worked hard to reach an agreement that will allow them to remain open.

“We recognise there is still a level of uncertainty but we are progressing the conclusion of the transfers as quickly as possible.

“While we are relatively confident we will reach a confirmed position, until these matters are concluded – which is likely to be in the New Year – we cannot confirm the date of a potential transfer or give an absolute certainty that the service will be purchased and continue.”

Tuesday’s announcement came ahead of a demonstration by Save Our Bield campaigners at the Scottish Parliament.

A petition signed by more than 7,400 people was handed over, calling on politicians to intervene and prevent the closure of the company’s 12 homes.

As well as Finavon Court, Bield said it is negotiating with other operators to sell a further three of its sites.

However, it is thought around 170 residents may have to be relocated if the company completes the closure of its portfolio.

Mr Dickson added: “Everything is being done to make sure the process is as smooth and unobtrusive as possible.

“We will support all residents and their families to find alternative arrangements that best suit their requirements and we remain committed to maintaining the current level of care and support in our homes until this is done.”

Picture: Wullie Marr.

Pictures: Wullie Marr and George McLuskie. A demonstration outside Holyrood against Bield’s plan to close its care homes, including Finavon Court in Glenrothes, below.