Local councillors and a trade union have raised concerns about potential closure of Ferndale House care home in Rhondda before a new residential care facility is operational. The proposal, part of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s considerations, aims to close Ferndale House and Cae Glas care homes in Hawthorn to develop a new residential dementia care facility on the former Chubb Factory site in Ferndale.
The council cited falling demand for traditional care homes as the reason for the proposed closures, highlighting significant vacancies in existing care homes leading to a potential annual saving of £2 million. While the council assures that the proposed changes aim to align care bed supply with demand, concerns have been raised about the timing of Ferndale House closure.
Local councillors Susan Morgans and Jayne Smith expressed disappointment about the potential closure of Ferndale House before the new facility is ready, despite earlier assurances that the closure would only happen after the new home was operational. The GMB union’s Craig Jones claimed staff felt betrayed over promises made by the director of social services regarding the continuity of care.
The council defended its decision, emphasizing the financial sustainability and modern care standards required for residential care facilities. It mentioned plans to increase residential dementia capacity in other locations and explored opportunities for staff redeployment in case of affected positions. The council also stressed the necessity to address the high rate of vacancies in existing care homes despite an expanding older population.
Efforts are underway to develop the new care facility at the Chubb Factory site in Ferndale, with preliminary groundwork being conducted subject to planning permission. The proposal aims to streamline care services and ensure the continued provision of quality care in alignment with evolving care needs. The community awaits further updates on the progress and impact of the proposed changes on care provision in the area.