Council seeks public input on future of local care homes
Consultations launched for Applethwaite Green and Grisedale Croft
Westmorland and Furness Council has initiated formal public consultations to determine the future of two residential care homes.
Residents, families, staff, and the community are invited to share views on Applethwaite Green Care Home in Windermere and Grisedale Croft Care Home in Alston.
Both 12-week consultation periods aim to gather opinions, understand impacts, and ensure future changes prioritise safety and quality of life for residents.
Applethwaite Green, with its 27 beds and 16 permanent residents, faces significant challenges including outdated facilities and high operating costs.
Options being considered range from refurbishment to closure.
Currently, there are 12 other residential care options within a 16-mile radius.
Grisedale Croft, a 13-bedroom facility, has seen declining occupancy and faces similar challenges.
The preferred route involves seeking alternative accommodation locally, provided a suitable building is found.
Refurbishment costs for both homes are estimated between £2.5 million and £3.0 million, but geopolitical uncertainties may raise costs.
Drop-in events and surveys are available for consultation.
Dates for Applethwaite Green include sessions on 1st June, 29th June, 1st July, and 16th July at local libraries.
For Grisedale Croft, events are scheduled for 3rd June, 15th June, 26th June, 1st July, and 20th July.
Nikkie Phipps, Assistant Director for Care Services, emphasizes the importance of feedback in shaping decisions with respect.
Public participation is encouraged via print or online surveys.
Final decisions will be made later in 2026 following analysis of the feedback.