Clwyd MS Darren Millar has called for more support for elderly residents affected by the closure of supported living facilities in Abergele, Mold and Ruthin.
The Codi Group, which owns and manages an Abbeyfield House in each of the towns, announced plans to close the facilities in June, leaving residents and staff anxious about the future.
Following the announcement Darren wrote to the Codi Group to demand an explanation for the proposed closures and to see assurances that the needs of residents would be put first.
In response, the Group confirmed that the planned closure is “highly unlikely” to be reversed but said that is will work with local authorities and registered social landlords to find suitable alternative accommodation and ensure their needs are met. It promised to manage the process “as sensitively as possible.”
Darren Millar MS said:
“News of the closure of these facilities came as a shock to staff, residents and their families.
“It is absolutely vital that vulnerable residents get the support they need from the Codi Group to find alternative housing, and that staff get the help they need to find new jobs.
“Residents have built their lives, friendships and support networks at Abbeyfield over years, so news that these closures will almost certainly go ahead will be extremely difficult news to hear.
“Residents must not simply be moved into the first accommodation that becomes available. Their individual needs, preferences, friendships, support networks and connections to their local community must all be properly considered.”
He added:
“I will continue to monitor this situation closely and will press Codi, the local authorities and other partners to ensure residents and their families are properly supported and kept informed at every stage.”
