Families Devastated as Vital Care Service for Most Vulnerable Faces Closure

The pending closure of the Newton House respite care service in Bath and North East Somerset has left families of the most vulnerable individuals distraught. The service, which provides short stays for adults with complex high care needs, is deemed a ‘godsend’ by the affected families. The decision to shut down the facility by the care provider Dimensions has provoked strong reactions from the parents, who fear the devastating impact it will have on their ability to care for their loved ones.

The closure announcement has thrown the lives of 22 families into uncertainty, as the Newton House is the only respite care facility of its kind in the area. For these families, the service is a vital resource, providing them with essential breaks in the caregiving routine and enabling them to tend to their own well-being. With the imminent closure, many fear that they won’t be able to continue looking after their loved ones at home.

The families have expressed their distress and desperation, highlighting the vital role the facility plays in their lives. They have urged the council to intervene and save the service, emphasizing the critical impact it has on their ability to function and provide the necessary care for their loved ones.

The closure has triggered concerns about the lack of alternative arrangements for the individuals who currently rely on the support provided by Newton House. Families worry about potential out-of-county placements, long journeys, and the risk of interrupted care. The impact of the closure on the families' daily lives and the well-being of their loved ones has become a pressing issue.

The shock and uncertainty stemming from the decision to close the facility without sufficient provisions for the affected families have prompted calls for a comprehensive review of the situation. The families are seeking concrete proposals and assurances from the relevant authorities, emphasizing the necessity of genuine support and immediate action to address the challenging circumstances they are facing.