Full Breakdown
Lancashire County Council's Controversial Care Home Closures
11/6/2025, 9:03:08 PM
Overview of Proposed Closures
Lancashire County Council, now led by Reform UK, is facing significant backlash over its proposal to close five council-run care homes and five day centres to save approximately £4 million annually. The council's decision comes as part of a broader strategy to address a £103 million budget shortfall, with adult social services expected to contribute around £50 million in savings over the next two financial years. The facilities under review include Grove House in Adlington, Woodlands in Clayton-le-Moors, and Vale View in Lancaster, among others.
Community Response and Concerns
The proposed closures have sparked outrage among residents and their families. Dorothy Devereux, a 92-year-old resident of Woodlands, expressed her determination to remain in her home, stating, “I’m staying here till I’m either forcibly removed or in a box.” Phil Price, whose mother resides in Grove House, echoed similar sentiments, fearing the news would be devastating for her health. Critics argue that the closures represent a "selling off the family silver," suggesting that the move would primarily benefit private care providers.
Allegations of Conflict of Interest
A significant point of contention involves Graham Dalton, the cabinet member for adult social care, who co-owns a private care company, 1st for Care GB. Critics, including Labour councillor Margaret France, have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, questioning Dalton's assertion that he has “no pecuniary or non-pecuniary interest” in the closures. Dalton has defended his position, stating that he understands the value of these services to the community.
Criticism of the Consultation Process
The consultation regarding the closures has also faced scrutiny. Opposition members have described the process as "rushed," with some claiming that outdated condition surveys from five years ago were used to justify the closures. Independent councillor Azhar Ali called for a pause in the review to gather more accurate data. Labour group leader Mark Clifford criticized the consultation as mishandled, asserting that it should be halted until comprehensive information is available.
Official Statements and Responses
Lancashire County Council has emphasized that no final decisions have been made regarding the closures. A spokesperson stated that the ongoing consultation aims to gather public input to inform future decisions. Dalton acknowledged the emotional significance of the care homes, noting, “These homes are not just buildings; they are places of comfort, familiarity, and connection.”
What's Next?
The consultation period is set to conclude in mid-December, with recommendations expected to be presented to the council in February 2026. As the community awaits the outcome, the debate over the future of adult social care in Lancashire continues, highlighting the tensions between budgetary constraints and the needs of vulnerable residents.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m staying here till I’m either forcibly removed or in a box.” — Dorothy Devereux, Resident
- “My mum is 93. If she finds out about this, it’ll kill her.” — Phil Price, Son of Resident
- “Margaret France, a Labour councillor in Chorley, said it looked like “selling off the family silver” and “opening the door to private providers”.” — Margaret France, Labour Councillor
- “I would also like to make it clear that no decisions have been made about the future of any of these services.” — Graham Dalton, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care
