‘Chaos’ as sudden closure of care home business leaves staff and residents high and dry

The sudden closure of a closure of a West Midlands care home has created “chaos” for staff and residents, says GMB Union.

People living in Holbeche House, in Dudley, have been given just 28-day notice to leave their homes, says the union.

Meanwhile staff have been invited to one-to-one meetings yesterday [10 May] to discuss their future.

The home has 48 beds and currently has 22 residents and 32 permanent staff it also relies on agency staff.

Holbeche House was originally a Four Seasons care home but the property – once the hideout of Guy Fawkes – is now operated by Belsize.

Rachel Fagan, GMB organiser, said: “This sudden closure has created chaos for residents and staff.

“Almost two dozen people – many who’ve lived in Holbeche for years – have been given just 28 days to move out. It’s inhumane.

“Meanwhile workers are suddenly told they’re losing their jobs and being called into meetings, but not being told they can have their union rep present.

“The residents of Holbeche and those who care for them deserve better than this.”

We have contacted Holbeche House for comment.