The Department of Health and Social Care is offering support to the residents of King’s Reach Care Home in Ramsey after the private company which owns and runs the facility, Four Seasons Healthcare, announced it will close on October 1 of this year.

Residents and staff were informed of the decision at a meeting held at the nursing home earlier this week (Tuesday 4 July).

The DHSC was made aware earlier this year that closure was a possibility and has used the intervening period to make arrangements to support the people who would be affected. Experienced staff from Adult Social Care will assist those requesting help to find suitable new homes. The department has assisted when homes have closed previously, and will ensure that best practice is followed.

Care home vacancies across the Island are monitored constantly by the DHSC, and the social work team will advise residents and their families of places appropriate to their individual care needs.

Minister for Health and Social Care Kate Beecroft MHK said: ‘The owner of King’s Reach Care Home contacted the Department to advise us that it may cease operating.

‘My officers began planning immediately to ensure that people affected by the closure would be supported appropriately.

‘It is important to stress that the closure is not immediate – there will be time for alternative placements to be found and the department will provide regular updates to all those affected.

‘While a number of important decisions lie ahead for residents and their families, DHSC staff will be on hand to discuss options and offer advice.’