Parents of some of Bath’s most vulnerable young people are overjoyed as a vital respite care home, Newton House, is set to remain open following a year-long campaign. Newton House, located on the city’s outskirts, is the only respite facility in Bath and North East Somerset offering short stays for young people with severe care needs, providing a crucial break for their full-time carers.
In late 2024, families were devastated to hear the service would close by January 2025 due to cost concerns. However, after persistent lobbying, their efforts paid off. On January 13, exactly one year after four parents first appealed to the council, families received the good news that a new five-year contract is being negotiated to keep Newton House operational.
Richard and Julie Franklin, whose son Ryan requires intensive, round-the-clock care due to a complex condition, described the news as “a big relief” that brought them to tears. Wendy Lucas, another parent, said: “It is everything we fought for. I cannot emphasise the huge relief this brings—it proves that parent voice truly matters.”
READ MORE: ‘Devastating’: Yeovil Residents Fear for Future as Leonardo Helicopter Factory Faces Closure
READ MORE: Somerset’s Road Network Ranked Among the Best Maintained in the UK
In November 2024, 22 families using Newton House were initially informed by letter that the service would close, though some, like Ms. Lucas, discovered the news on social media before receiving official notice. The council later apologized for the distress caused and temporarily paused the closure while exploring alternatives.
Mr. Franklin launched a petition, gaining nearly 3,000 signatures, and with support from local councillor Dave Biddleston, the campaign maintained a strong presence at council meetings. Despite initial setbacks, new procurement laws introduced in 2023 allow the council to make a direct award contract to Dimensions, the organisation running Newton House. This move aligns with families’ wishes and addresses the urgent need to ensure continuous care.
A forthcoming council report highlights the commitment to prevent any service gap after the current contract ends on October 1. Families can now breathe easier knowing that vital respite care will continue uninterrupted.
Mr. Franklin reflected on the victory: “We have been listened to, and the value of this service recognized. For families like ours, having a place you trust to care for your loved ones is invaluable. We must never lose this again.”
Councillor Biddleston echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the essential nature of respite care: “Respite care is not a luxury but a lifeline. It supports carers’ wellbeing and helps keep families together. Stability and choice in respite services are both a moral imperative and practical necessity.”
The update on Newton House will be formally presented to the council’s children, adults, health, and wellbeing scrutiny committee on January 19 at Bath Guildhall.