Wick-based care service to close after ‘operational and financial challenges’
The imminent closure of a Wick-based care service has been described as “very sad news” by the town’s provost.
Councillor Jan McEwan was speaking after it emerged that Care at Home, run by Pulteneytown People’s Project (PPP), is being discontinued because of “operational and financial challenges”.
Users have been told that efforts are being made to move care packages to an alternative provider by the start of November, with an assurance given that the transition will be “as smooth and comfortable as possible”.
Care is provided through a contract with the NHS.
PPP’s website says Care at Home operates in Wick and the surrounding area “and we have a current team of 12”.
Councillor McEwan, who represents Wick and East Caithness on Highland Council, said: “My concerns are for the clients. They must be quite distressed, anxious and worried.
“Who is going to provide the care packages at home for them? They have probably built up a relationship with the carers.
“Also the staff who are going to be losing their jobs… will there be a chance that they could be offered positions with the NHS? It would be good if we could know who the new provider is going to be to alleviate some concerns for the care users and employees.
“It is very disappointing that another third-sector care provider is no longer sustainable, especially when the guidance is to keep people in their own homes as long as possible. It is very sad news for Wick and East Caithness.”
PPP said in a statement: “We can confirm that we have had to make the difficult decision to serve notice on our Care at Home contract with the NHS which started within the PPP in 2016.
“We are working closely with the NHS to ensure the continuity of care and smooth transition of service packages for all of our clients.
“Alternative employment opportunities for our Care at Home team are being explored.
“Despite this decision being difficult, it has been necessary to support the future viability of PPP and all of the great benefits it provides our community.”
A spokesperson for NHS Highland said: “We can confirm that Pulteneytown People’s Project have given notice on their Care at Home contract in Caithness. Service users and the provider’s staff have been informed.
“We are working closely with PPP and other care at home providers to transition arrangements by November 1 and to ensure continuity of service. The support services commissioned by NHS Highland from PPP are unaffected.”
The note from PPP to Care at Home clients stated: “After considerable reflection, Pulteneytown People's Project has made the difficult decision to serve the NHS with notice on the intention to close our Care at Home department.
“This decision was not made lightly, and we understand that this may cause some concern. Due to operational and financial challenges, we are no longer in a position to continue offering Care at Home services. However, our commitment to your wellbeing remains our utmost priority during this transition.
“To ensure continuity of care, we will be working with NHS Highland to make arrangements to transition your care package to an alternative care provider who will meet your needs with the same level of dedication and professionalism. We will be working closely to ensure they are fully briefed on your care plan and requirements, ensuring a smooth handover of services.
“Between now and November 1 you will be contacted by your new provider, who will arrange to introduce their team and discuss any concerns you may have regarding the transition. You will continue to receive care from us until the new provider takes over.
“We understand that changes like this can be unsettling, but please be assured that we are working together with NHS Highland to support you through this transition. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, our team is available to help.”
The message gives the PPP phone number and Care at Home email address, as well as NHS numbers in Wick and Thurso.
The note adds: “We deeply appreciate the trust you have placed in us to provide your care, and we are committed to making this transition as smooth and comfortable as possible.”
PPP was set up in 2003 as a community-led charity and social enterprise. It is based at the £3.8 million Pulteney Centre in Huddart Street, Wick, which opened in 2012.