Anglesey care homes: Closure plans protests by Unison

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-21457619

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A number of protests are being held on Anglesey over the possible closure of elderly care homes on the island.

A public consultation on the future of all six council-run homes has been under way since last summer in a bid to save £13m from budgets by 2016.

The Unison union organised demonstrations outside each of the homes on Thursday.

The council said it was considering the "overwhelming" consultation responses before taking any decision.

Thelma Parry, Unison's Anglesey branch officer said: "Unison members are understandably extremely angry about any attempts threaten closure of our residential care homes.

"These homes are at the heart of the community and the residents need the support.

"We know we have the backing and support of the local community, who are also robustly opposed to any cuts or closures."

Regional organiser, Geoff Edkins, added: "All we are seeking is a fair play these vulnerable people and the staff who care for them. We're asking the council to have a heart and to keep the homes open."

About 170 elderly residents are currently cared for in council homes dotted around the island.

But the authority has said that social services for adults need to be "remodelled" as the council deals with a rising elderly population, with estimates that by 2032 25% of the population will be over 65.

The challenge is coupled increasing pressures on the island's budgets, with the need to find £2.8m in the next financial year.

A further £10m of savings must also be found within the authority by the end of 2016.

Anglesey's director of community, Gwen Carrington, said a report on the public consultations over the council's care homes was now being written, and she thanked those who had delivered their "overwhelming" responses in the process.

"We've been extremely pleased with the number of people who participated and responses received," she said.

"An analysis of the information provided is under way and it should provide us with a valuable insight as we look to transform social care for adults on Anglesey in the future.

"A formal report outlining the opportunities and challenges ahead will be presented to the executive later in the spring."