Anglesey council care homes could close to save £15m
All six council-run care homes on Anglesey may close in a bid to save £15m from the council's budget by 2016.
Social services for adults are being "remodelled" as the council deals with a rising elderly population, with estimates that by 2032 25% of the population will be over 65. A 10-12 week consultation process will now take place. At the end of that period a report will be presented to councillors, who will decide where closures will happen. The council currently cares for around 168 residents. The six care homes are Plas Penlan, Llangefni; Plas Crigyll, Bryn Gwran; Garreglwyd, Holyhead; Brwynog, Amlwch; Plas Mona, Llanfairpwll and Haulfre, Llangoed. Stephen Sloss, the council's interim director of community, said the way services for adults are provided must 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." He said there was not a right form of accommodation and care that would suit everyone. "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," he added. Councillor Ken Hughes said: "Garreglwyd is not the only home where the future needs to be consulted upon and determined. "We understand that this process is likely to cause concern amongst residents, their families and staff, but we would like to reassure them that we will be taking this process one step at a time, and listening to their views and concerns."