Assurances made over Blairgowrie care home care

ASSURANCES have been made about a Blairgowrie care home after its owner went into administration.

It was announced last week that the Argus Care Group, which runs the Rosemount Golf Retirement Centre in Blairgowrie, had been transferred to administrators PKF.

And the administrators were quick to stress that the elderly care would not be disrupted while new owners were being sought.

Last week, Bryan Jackson, corporate recovery partner with PKF, said: “We will continue to operate the homes as normal while they are in administration.

“We will ensure that all residents, their relatives, and staff are kept fully informed of any developments as well as notifying the relevant local and regulatory authorities.

“We appreciate that these are not like any other businesses but are the homes of the residents and ensuring there is continuity of care is our priority.”

He added: “Whilst trading we will be seeking buyers for the business trading from the homes and will market them as going concerns.”

Speaking after the announcement, Perthshire North MSP, John Swinney, said: “I have received verbal confirmation from the company, which guarantees that care will not be interrupted.

“I have also discussed the matter with the Cabinet Secretary for Health Nicola Sturgeon MSP. I am reassured that both the Scottish Government and the council are monitoring this developing situation.

“Care needs to be the priority just now and ensuring staff and residents are kept fully informed of developments is vital. I will be writing to the company to seek guarantees for residents, family and staff.”

MP Pete Wishart, whose Perth and North Perthshire constituency includes the Blairgowrie home, added: “I know this will be a very worrying time for residents, their families and staff. I very much hope that a buyer for all of the Argus homes can be found soon so that both jobs and the welfare of residents can be protected.

“This news follows the fall of the Southern Cross group and raises serious questions over the business model used by some private care home providers.”

The Rosemount Golf Retirement Centre has 45 rooms and five “close care cottages” as well as a swimming pool, bar and library.