Northern Ireland

Concern for residents of Enniskillen care home set to close its doors

Eddie Lynch, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland
Eddie Lynch, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland Eddie Lynch, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland

ASSURANCES are being sought on living arrangements for 34 residents of a Co Fermanagh care home which is to close due to a lack of staff.

Drumclay Care Home in Enniskillen announced plans to shut in a meeting with relatives of residents on Wednesday.

In a statement, a spokesman for the facility said: "Despite major investment in the home, the sole reason for this closure is due to our ongoing inability to recruit the quality and quantity of skilled and experienced nursing staff required for us to deliver safe, effective and compassionate care to our residents."

The Western Health Trust said it would "manage the transition and find suitable alternative accommodation that meets each resident's individual needs" and vowed to remain in regular contact with families throughout the process.

The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Eddie Lynch, said he was "saddened" by the closure announcement.

"It can be very distressing for residents to be moved from the place which they call their home," he said.

"Continued regular and open communication between the Western Health and Social Care Trust and families will be key to minimising the negative impact on the 34 older people affected.

"My office has spoken to the authorities and will be seeking assurances that suitable alternative accommodation is found for all of the residents that meets their individual needs."