Wirral care homes fear they could go out of business

CARE homes in Wirral could go out of business if the council presses ahead with changes to their fees, owners have warned.

Wirral Care Association (WCA), which represents the majority of the 111 homes in the borough, says the changes mean they will have to look after the elderly and provide care for less money.

It is now warning of “serious consequences” to vulnerable adults in Wirral if the proposed new fees are adopted.

A spokesman for WCA said the proposed fees are “irrational, illogical and unfair”.

But Graham Hodkinson, director of adult social care, said the revised fees were developed with independent sector and “give due regard to actual costs”.

He said the council will work with homes which may struggle with the new fees, and added: “The proposals are made to ensure that homes are able to meet the essential standards of care and safety.”

The council’s cabinet is set to decide on the fees when it meets on November 29.