The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Petition says any closure of home would be a ‘devastating blow’
Relatives of residents who stay in a Perth care home have expressed their concerns over its future.
More than 2,500 people have signed an online petition calling for Beechgrove Care Home, the only council-run care home in Perth, to be kept open.
Organisers say they started the petition to get their message across to Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Integration board, which is carrying out a consultation exercise looking at the future of Beechgrove.
One critic, Sheila Harris, of Perth, whose mother-in-law Betty Harris stays at the home, said she was worried about the potential impact closure would have on the elderly population in the city.
In a letter to Perth and Kinross Council, she said: “My mother-in-law’s first day at Beechgrove was a hugely emotional day for all of us but looking back now, I feel guilty that she probably should have moved a few years earlier, as the quality, service and structure of care suited her so much more.
“I feel so disappointed that the council is not celebrating the outstanding level of care that is provided at Beechgrove.
“I would have hoped it could be held up as a centre of excellence, rather than face possible closure.”
Mark Cant, whose 90-yearold mother, Elizabeth, stays at Beechgrove, added: “I firmly believe closure of the care home would be a devastating blow to residents and the community.”
A council spokesperson said: “The review is currently under way and no decisions have been taken with regard to Beechgrove.”