Sale of 42 NI care homes leaves residents facing ‘uncertain future’ warn unions

Four Seasons Health Care, one of the largest care home groups in the UK, has been in administration since April.

The GMB and Unison trade unions have criticised the timing of the disclosure that the 42 Four Seasons care homes in Northern Ireland are up for sale.

Alan Perry, GMB organiser, said: “The announcement is a shock, which will impact on the hundreds of vulnerable elderly people and their families who are already concerned about their loved ones in the midst of the covid-19 crisis.

“The decision to sell off these care homes will also affect the hard-working staff who have put their lives and health in the line.

“At a time when we are all being told to pull together, during the most serious pandemic in our lifetime we didn’t expect this bombshell, which comes just as we approach what looks like a very difficult winter for the NHS.

“We know there is a need for some investment in the company and we have serious worries for staff and residents, as it is possible that some homes are at risk of permanent closure.

“The whole question of care homes being in private hands, rather than part of the NHS, needs to be looked at.

“After the stresses of battling coronavirus for the last nine months, staff and residents need reassurances that services and jobs will be maintained.”

Unison regional organiser Marianne Buick added: “This news could not come at a more difficult time for the residents, their families and staff and is very unsettling for them. They are all coping with the worry and stress of rising covid infections in the social care sector. Four Seasons hedge fund owners and associated shareholders should think carefully how they proceed in these circumstances. The Minister now has a clear opportunity to make plans to acquire these homes and provide the care through the HSC.”

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