Petition opposes Lincolnshire care home closures

Two petitions opposing the closure of eight care homes in Lincolnshire have been handed to the county council.

The sites provide respite and intermediate care for the elderly, but are under threat as the council looks to modernise its care.

The main petition had more than 8,000 signatures on it and another from Sleaford had 400 signatures.

Lincolnshire County Council said the homes are "not fit for purpose" and need upgrading.

Black cloud

Phil Lynn, who works in the day care centre at Linelands Home in Nettleham near Lincoln, said she hopes the petition will have some influence on the council.

"A lot of people who use the day service at the homes say it is like a black cloud hanging over them because they don't know if they will be able to see their friends again," she said.

The care homes under review include Bonner House, Sleaford; The Cedars, Gainsborough; Crowtree House, Louth; Halmer Grange, Spalding; Harrison House, Grantham; Ingelow Manor, Boston; Linelands, Nettleham; and Park View, Lincoln.

As well as the main petition, a second 400-name petition was handed in from Bonner House in Sleaford.

County councillor Graham Marsh, portfolio holder for social care, said he understands people's concerns.

"We have to look at how we are going to provide the right sort of services that people expect in a way we can afford to do it and at a level that people would expect and demand."