Hundreds call for under-threat Chesterfield care home to be saved

Derbyshire County Council is consulting on the possible closure of seven care homes, including East Clune in Clowne, and Holmlea in Tibshelf, as well as The Spinney, Landsdowne Road, Brimington.

It says the homes “need significant improvement due to the deteriorating state of the buildings” and, even if repairs were carried out, “some of the homes are no longer fit for the purpose of providing high-quality care for older people with increasingly complex needs”.

However, more than 1,400 people have signed an online petition, Help stop closure of The Spinney.

Starting the petition, Karen Tracey, whose grandmother is a resident in The Spinney, said: “When we heard The Spinney was likely to be closed we were very upset, not just for the residents, who will need to be placed elsewhere, breaking up friendships and social bonds, but also for the dedicated staff who work there.

“The staff there are so welcoming and caring, they have got to know Nan and her personality.

“The environment is comfortable, homely and welcoming. As a family, it is good to know she is safe and settled there.”

Signing the petition, Kerri Smedley·called it “heartbreaking”.

And Pat Hales wrote: “My mother was a resident there until she passed away.

“It’s one of the best care homes in the area with fantastic, dedicated staff. This care home made my mother’s last moments happy and comfortable.”

The council urged everyone to fill in its online questionnaire about the plans, which opens on Friday.

A council spokeswoman said: “We’re happy to accept the petition in the usual way and if it reaches 7,500, there would be a council debate.

“We urge everyone to have their say on the proposals during our 12-week consultation by filling in our online questionnaire.

“Paper copies are also available at derbyshire.gov.uk/care-home-review.

“We’re holding a series of meetings with residents, relatives and carers in our homes and will provide support to anyone who needs it to give their views.”

It says it would also hold public meetings about the plans going forward.