A ROTHERHITHE adult care home for over-65s is “no longer fit for purpose” and proposals have been made to move the facility ten miles away to Beckenham, according to its owners.
Ann Moss Specialist Care Unit is said to “need more modern and specialist mental health services” and proposals have been made to move to Chelsham House, a unit of Bethlem Royal Hospital.
The care home on Ann Moss Way is run by South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) and cares for thirteen Southwark residents suffering from mental health conditions such as dementia.
A spokesperson for SLaM said: “No decisions have been made and we are in discussions with NHS Southwark CCG, which commissions the service on behalf of Southwark patients.
“The trust will discuss the proposal with all the patients affected, and their families and carers, as part of a careful and meaningful engagement exercise.
“We would document their needs and, should this proposal go ahead, we would review with them how best to support them in a transition to a new environment.”
If the proposals are agreed, the patients would have access to new facilities such as en suite accommodation as well as all the resources at the hospital including clinical experts.
Moving elderly suffers of dementia can pose health risks, however, due to a sudden change in environment.
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director of Age UK, said: “While taking action against poor standards in care is vital, we know that moving vulnerable, frail older people can pose a risk to their health and well-being.
“The disruption for people living with dementia can be particularly acute if it takes them away from their familiar surroundings and carers.
“Whenever a service closes it is absolutely vital that the welfare of those receiving care is paramount and every precaution must be taken to make sure that the process is managed safely.
“The NHS has a duty to protect the welfare of all the older people in these circumstances and make sure they are able to move to a new facility that can safely meet their needs and as near as possible to their families and community.”