Highland Council steps in to save Moss Park Care Home from closure

Community concerns lead to intervention for Lochaber's care facility

Introduction

The future of Moss Park Care Home in Lochaber has been secured following Highland Council’s decision to purchase the facility from HC One, which had announced plans for closure by the end of the year. This intervention comes as a relief to families and community members who had expressed deep concerns over the potential loss of this vital care service.

Community Response and Support

In recent weeks, the community rallied together to voice their worries about the proposed closure of Moss Park.

Hundreds attended a meeting to discuss the implications of losing the care home, which serves as a crucial support system for many residents in Lochaber. The joint statement from NHS Highland and Highland Council highlighted their commitment to ensuring that care services remain available to the community. They stated, “We are delighted to announce that we are progressing work to secure a purchase of the Moss Park Care Home and a transfer of service provision to NHS Highland in 2025.” This announcement has been met with optimism from families who rely on the facility for their loved ones.

Future Plans for Care Provision

The plan is for NHS Highland to take over the operation of Moss Park Care Home in early 2025, providing a medium-term solution while a more sustainable long-term model is developed. The Highland Council’s decision was influenced by a confidential report that assessed the future of care provision in Lochaber. The report recommended the acquisition of the care home, emphasizing the need for continued support for residents and staff. “While this is still only a first step in the process, it is hopeful this proposed way forward provides some certainty to care home residents and their families and the care home staff,” the officials stated.

Government Support and Next Steps

The Scottish Government has also expressed support for this intervention, recognizing the importance of maintaining care services in the region. The collaborative effort between NHS Highland and Highland Council aims to ensure that residents receive the care they need without interruption. As the transition process begins, further engagement with stakeholders will occur to address any concerns and outline the next steps. The community remains hopeful that this initiative will lead to a stable and sustainable future for Moss Park Care Home.

Conclusion

The decision to save Moss Park Care Home marks a significant step towards securing essential care services in Lochaber. With the backing of local authorities and the community, the future of the care home looks promising, ensuring that residents and their families can continue to rely on the support they need.