By Talking Health TV –

Kirklees councillors have reaffirmed their decision to transfer the council’s two dementia care homes to an independent provider, allowing negotiations to continue with interested organisations.

At a cabinet meeting on Wednesday 11 February, councillors reviewed additional financial analysis regarding the running of Claremont House and Castle Grange.

The decision follows a previous call-in by councillors, which led to further scrutiny of the transfer plans.

Next Steps in the Transfer Process

Negotiations with potential providers will now resume to reach the best and final offer stage, after which a suitable provider will be selected to take over the operation of the homes.

Councillor Beverley Addy, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, acknowledged the concerns of families affected by the transition.

“We know families of the residents in our care homes are understandably worried at this time of change,” she said.

“We have continuously highlighted that should a transfer of ownership occur, residents will not be required to move out of the place they call home. This will allow continuity of care, which is what families have been most concerned about.

“Talks with interested providers will resume to try to reach a final decision on a transfer. And, as before, we have provided reassurances to families that discussions are only taking place with those providers who are committed to keeping both establishments as dementia care homes.”

Councillor Addy also stressed the financial challenges faced by the council, which have necessitated a reassessment of resources for adult social care.

“Like other councils across the country, we are faced with increasing demands for adult social care, meaning we must look at how we can make the best of the limited resources available to us. This means identifying a good quality, experienced provider to take over the running of our two dementia residential homes,” she added.

The decision marks the next phase in determining the future of Claremont House and Castle Grange, with further updates expected as negotiations progress.