Council's pledge over care homes

Staffordshire County Council has pledged that none of the 500 people in its care homes will be made homeless as a result of its plans to close them.

It has written to residents in its homes for the elderly, and adults with disabilities, as well as relatives and those receiving respite or day care.

The council said it hoped to quash "unfounded rumours" about its plans.

Residents and relatives have staged protests over the proposals but failed in an attempt to get a judicial review.

The council has said it wants more people to be cared for in their own homes or through the independent sector and its preferred option is to close all of its care homes.

Decision delayed

It is also considering maintaining the status quo or closing some care homes and keeping some open.

Councillor Susan Woodward said: "Naturally, any concerns raised by those in our care are concerns for us.

"Unfortunately, there has been too much misguided speculation circulating which has caused a lot of unnecessary distress to our service users and carers, which is why we are so anxious to reassure them about their future.

"We wish to make it very clear that we will continue to meet the needs of those currently living in council run homes, irrespective of whether an individual home remains open or is closed."

Individual care assessments are being carried out with residents and their families.

The council said it had delayed a decision until the late autumn to let the assessment take place.