Garvagh Care Home to close in May

News was given to staff and residents this morning.

Back in December we reported on a possible repreive for the home located on the Kilrea road.

East Londonderry MLA has described the news as a ‘major blow’.

“There was some hope of a take over, but now our worst fears have come to light.

“This is a devastating blow to the residents, their families and the workers.

“The care home is one of the biggest employers in the Garvagh area, it is totally devastating.”

In a statement, Four Seasons Health Care said:

“ In December we announced that we had received an expression of interest to take over the operation of Garvagh care home as a going concern. Consequently we paused the process of the closure of the home to allow the prospective buyer to progress to an offer.

“In the intervening period proposed sale has not progressed and unfortunately the expression of interest has now been withdrawn. As there are no viable options remaining we have reluctantly re-started the process to close the home.

“As promised, we will ensure that people who chose to remain in the home during this pause don’t lose out in terms of notice period. We will work with the Health and Social Care Trust and do everything we can to support residents and their families to transfer to suitable alternative placements. The home is expected to close during May 2016.

“We are in discussion families and with the unions about the closure process.

“We would like to retain as many employees as we can within the Four Seasons Group.

“Sales of three other homes are progressing. These are: Antrim Care Home, Oakridge Care Home in Ballynahinch and Hamilton Court in Armagh.”