Following Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet's decision to approve a proposal to close Garth Olwg Care Home, Heledd Fychan, Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd for South Wales Central has expressed her disappointment on behalf of the residents and staff of the home.
The decision comes following a consultation period, where it became clear that the majority of people opposed the closure of the Home with over 500 names being submitted between two petitions. All but one of the current residents of the home opposed the intention to close their home (one was 'unsure') and a very clear majority of people, over 70% wanted to keep the provision exactly as it was.
Furthermore, the report of the Care Inspectorate Wales said the residential home in Garth Olwg is somewhere where “People are happy with the support they receive. Care staff are considerate and polite, as well as dedicated to their work. There is a long-standing staff team in place, and they know the needs and preferences of the people they care for.”
Responding to the decision, Ms Fychan said: "It is disgraceful that the Council has decided to proceed with the closure of Garth Olwg Care Home, despite the opposition of the residents of the home, the local community and Care Inspectorate Wales.
"Once again, this is an example of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Labour Cabinet ignoring the opinions of residents and experts, and reducing the number of places available in care homes despite an increase in demand.
"Many will ask what is the purpose of consultation if the Council is not willing to listen to the opinion of anyone other than themselves? This is a wrong move on the part of the Council, which will adversely affect an essential service in the community.
Ioan Bellin, a local campaigner in Church Village who opposed the closure of the Home, added: "Many people in Church Village will be disappointed with this decision by the Labour Party. There is pride in the community that Garth Olwg has been a center for excellent residential care for older people for so long, and they feel bitter that this care will end.
“People will have numerous questions to ask local Labour Councilors, who were elected last year on the basis that they had protected the future of the Care Home. They will have to justify their empty promises to the electorate in the next election, and work hard between now and then to restore the trust of the community."
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