The Chief Executive of Abbeyfield Living Society, Paul Tennant, made a reassuring visit to Wellington, confirming the continued operation of the independent living homes – Ivy House and The Old Vicarage. Tennant also detailed plans for improvement works at both locations during meetings with residents. This decision comes after Abbeyfield’s previous announcement of closure, which stirred concern among the elderly tenants.
Tennant mentioned the closure of financially unsustainable properties across the country, influencing the decision to keep the Wellington homes open and allocate funds towards necessary renovations. Additionally, discussions with Homes England and the support received from the local community have contributed to this positive outcome.
Local representatives, including Cllr Andrew Govier, Gideon Amos MP, and Mayor Cllr Janet Lloyd, expressed strong backing for the homes' continued operation and improvement. The commitment to preserving these essential community resources, in the face of initial uncertainty, has been met with relief and gratitude from the residents and their advocates.