A decision by a Reform UK-led local authority to close eight of its residential care homes has been met with fury and described as a profound betrayal of the community it serves.
Closures Announced Days Before Christmas
Just days before the Christmas holiday, Derbyshire County Council confirmed that eight care homes would have to close. This followed the collapse of intensive negotiations with a potential provider to take over the running of the facilities.
The council stated that "due to commercial sensitivities" it could not provide further details on why the proposed sale fell through. The original decision to sell the homes was made in November 2024, when the council was under Conservative control.
Backlash from Unions and Political Leaders
The announcement has prompted a significant backlash, with the GMB union warning that vital services and more than 200 jobs are now at risk. Mick Coppin, a GMB regional organiser, condemned the move.
"These closures are nothing short of a betrayal of local people and staff," Coppin said. "Derbyshire county council did not stand before the electorate last May pledging to shut care homes." He urged the council's leadership to halt the plans and work with the community to find alternatives.
The issue was raised at Prime Minister's Questions by Linsey Farnsworth, the Labour MP for Amber Valley, who said families and staff were heartbroken. Labour leader Keir Starmer responded, calling the situation "deeply concerning" and highlighting that his party was making £3.7bn of extra funding available to councils for social care.
Council's Response and Support Pledge
Joss Barnes, the Reform councillor who is the cabinet member for adult care, said he was "devastated" that the negotiations had failed. He acknowledged the timing was particularly difficult for residents, families, and care workers.
"I know this will be extremely upsetting news for all our residents and their families, as well as our hard-working care colleagues, especially coming at this time of year," Barnes stated. He added that the council would work to support residents in finding new homes.
The controversy in Derbyshire echoes a similar situation in Lancashire, where another Reform-led council is planning to close five care homes and five day centres, moving residents into the private sector.
