Mayor fears too late to save threatened Wem care home

Councillor Mandy Meakin, mayor of Wem, says she doesn't believe Coverage Care will overturn its decision to close the Westlands care home in the town.

It comes ahead of a public meeting called by the town council, which will be held today in Edinburgh House, at 7pm.

Councillor Meakin said: "If people wish to know what's happening about Westlands they should come to the meeting.

"I don't think we will get a reprieve. The meeting it just to let people know what will be happening in the future.

"It was a bit of a bombshell when we heard about the decision. At the time nobody knew what was happening and when. So we called the meeting to allay people's fears."

Ruth Houghton, who is head of social care, efficiency and improvement at Shropshire Council, will also be attending the meeting.

"She will be answering questions about what Shropshire Council's proposals are for it and future support," Councillor Meakin said.

She added she was disappointed that no one from Coverage Care will be attending the meeting.

Chief executive of Coverage Care, David Coull, said last month that it was expected Westlands would close in April, amid financial struggles and building repair costs, leaving 54 staff out of work and 31 long-term residents having to relocate.

Families of the home's residents have hit out at the announcement and are concerned about the impacts it will have on loved ones.

But Mr Coull defended the plans, saying any decisions, however difficult, are taken with a view to the long-term health of the organisation.