Anglesey’s care homes face being sacrificed for new forms of care

The Isle of Anglesey County Council looks on a course to clash with its communities regarding the future of several care homes, after announcing a comprehensive review that does not rule out closures.

Plans to close Garreglwyd Care Home, in Holyhead, met with an unfavourable public reaction, but the council has not lessened the blow by announcing that a further five facilities have also had their future opened for consultation.

According to shadow portfolio holder for social services, councillor Ken Hughes, “Advancements in medical and care technology, coupled with better housing and extra support to live at home means that the way in which we provide residential care will need to change.”

The care homes confirmed as being subject to consultation, as well as Garreglwyd, are Plas Penlan, Plas Crigyll, Brwynog, Plas Mona and Haulfre.

Interim Director of Community, Stephen Sloss, says, “The way in which services for older people are provided needs to change. Anglesey has an ageing population, and most people would prefer to stay in their own home for as long as possible. Our services need to support this desire for independence as far as possible.

“There is no one ‘right’ form of accommodation and care that will suit every individual, and therefore our challenge as a local authority is to ensure there is as wide a range of possible options, so that adults and their families can make the best possible decisions for their care, supported by us.”