A plan by a Reform UK-led council to shut eight residential care homes has been branded a profound betrayal of local communities, casting a shadow over the festive period for residents, families, and staff.
Last-Minute Announcement Sparks Outcry
Just days before Christmas, Derbyshire County Council confirmed the impending closures after intensive negotiations with a prospective buyer collapsed. The failed sale leaves more than 200 jobs in jeopardy and vulnerable residents facing an uncertain future.
Mick Coppin, a regional organiser for the GMB union, condemned the move. "These closures are nothing short of a betrayal of local people and staff," he stated. "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 collaborate on finding alternatives.
Political Reaction and Funding Questions
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from opposition MPs. Linsey Farnsworth, the Labour MP for Amber Valley, raised the issue at Prime Minister's Questions, describing heartbreak among families and staff and calling for a rethink.
In response, Keir Starmer expressed deep concern over the Reform-led council's actions. He highlighted that the government was making £3.7bn of extra funding available to councils for social care, implying the closures were a local political choice.
The situation in Derbyshire mirrors tensions in Lancashire, where another Reform-influenced council is proposing to close five care homes and five day centres.
Council's 'Devastated' Response and Next Steps
Joss Barnes, the Reform councillor and cabinet member for adult care, said he was "devastated" the sale had not succeeded. "I know this will be extremely upsetting news... especially coming at this time of year," he acknowledged, thanking staff for their hard work.
He cited commercial sensitivities for being unable to divulge further negotiation details but confirmed the council would now focus on supporting residents to find new accommodation. It was noted that the original decision to sell the homes was made in November 2024 when the council was under Conservative control.
The announcement has ignited a fierce debate about the provision of local authority care and the stability of services under the relatively new political management of Reform UK at the council level.
