Douglas View Care Home under new management

A NEW operator has taken over a Hamilton care home formerly operated by Southern Cross. HC-One are now running the Douglas View Care Home which provides residential care for up to 74 older people and 26 younger people in a specialised unit.

Southern Cross suffered serious financial problems earlier this year.

They blamed rising rents and declining fees from local authorities for the problems which left a question mark over the future of their 752 homes, 10 of them in Lanarkshire.

Southern Cross tried to re-negotiate the rent arrangements but failed to reach agreement with the 80 owners of their properties.

As result, Southern Cross decided to shut down leading to concern about the future of residents and staff at the homes.

HC-One now provide care at a third of the former Southern Cross care homes.

Last year’s festive celebrations at the Douglas View home were over-shadowed by the increasing uncertainty surrounding the future of Southern Cross.

The latest Christmas celebrations at the home have been different, say the new operators.

Their spokesman said: “Residents have enjoyed an active festive season participating in visiting the Christmas lights in Glasgow and a festive lunch at the Alona Hotel, as well as enjoying festive tea dances in Airdrie and pantomime both in Hamilton Town Hall and within Douglas View.

“Residents also enjoyed good cheer at the Christmas parties in every unit complete with an entertainer and Santa.”

HC-One has now been operational since November and was formed to ensure the continuity of care in homes that are owned by NHP, the social care landlord, and formerly leased to Southern Cross.

Dr Chai Patel, chairman of HC-One said: “After the months of uncertainty that residents had to endure earlier in the year, I think the greatest gift we can give this Christmas is peace of mind and security for the future.

“I wish every resident and every member of staff a very happy Christmas.”