Mystery as Dorset care home closes out of the blue

MYSTERY surrounds the abrupt closure of a Dorset care home after concerns were raised about the welfare of its 12 elderly residents.

Autumn Care in Dudsbury Road, West Parley, was given a clean bill of health on its last inspection from social care watchdog the Care Quality Commission in October 2010.

But following intervention from Dorset County Council social services, residents were taken to new accommodation last week.

Jane Harper, whose elderly aunt had lived at the home for more than six years, said: “Last Monday I had a telephone call from social services. They said they were concerned my aunt was at risk and had to move her.

“On Wednesday I had a call from the manager of the home to say they had taken my aunt to St Leonard’s Hospital.

“She is 85, has vascular dementia and is no longer mobile. I went on Friday expecting to see her on her death bed, but she was bright.

“I took a lot of time finding somewhere for her and never announced myself when I went to visit her. The staff were lovely and I couldn’t fault it. I can’t believe it’s neglect.”

Mrs Harper, who lives in Devon, said social services told her she had to find a new home for her aunt, who pays for her own care.

“They’ve all been shipped somewhere, but nobody will say anything,” she added.

Dorset County Council declined to comment on the closure.

Care Quality Commission spokesman Nick Kerswell said: “After issues raised by the county council, we are discussing what action should be taken.”

Autumn Care is owned by Linda and John Hughes and is licensed to take up to 14 residents.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “Dorset Police in conjunction with social services and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) are investigating concerns regarding the level of care provided at the Autumn Care residential home in Ferndown.

“The home is closed and all residents have been rehomed. The closure … is a matter for the relevant local authorities and the CQC. No one has been arrested.”