Consultation majority want care home refurbished

Residents, families and staff are pushing for a closure-threatened care home to be refurbished, not shut down.

Westmorland and Furness Council began talks in May over the future of Applethwaite Green in Windermere and Grisedale Croft in Alston, which it said could cost up to £6m to refurbish to modern standards.

In a public consultation on its future, which ran from May to August, 164 out of 254 responses said they would like to see it refurbished over options such as knocking it down and rebuilding it, or to do nothing.

Quotes from various consultees were included in the report, including one resident of Applethwaite Green who said "leave my home alone please".

The report's author said the "most consistent" concern was the impact of any future decision on residents.

"Respondents highlighted continuity of care, familiarity, emotional wellbeing and the risks associated with relocation, particularly for residents living with dementia, frailty or anxiety," it said.

Those who voted for refurbishment advocated for a "more modest" refurbishment programme, retaining local provision while minimising disruption to residents.

In the report, a resident of Applethwaite said they had "found a new family" at the home, they were "looked after very well" and it would be "very distressing and extremely upsetting to lose my home".

Another resident added: "I am quite happy living here. The staff are very caring.

"I am not bothered about having an ensuite bathroom and my room is large enough for my needs."

The woman said she did not want to move to Kendal, Milnthorpe or Grange, which have been suggested as alternative provision.

The results of the consultation will be discussed at a meeting next Wednesday before a final decision is made later.

Supporters of saving the home have organised a free coach from Windermere to Kendal town hall to attend.

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