An elderly resident died just hours after being moved from an ‘urgently closed’ Isle of Wight care home, Island Echo can exclusively reveal.
Residents of Ryde’s Annefield Grange and Cameron House, along with Freshwater’s Summerhouse, were relocated after care provider Casa di Cura Ltd fast-tracked plans to shut the homes earlier this month.
It had initially been hoped that the homes would close and residents would be moved in mid-May. However, the decision to bring forward the closures was communicated to residents and staff with less than 24 hours’ notice, Island Echo understands.
It can now be revealed that last Wednesday (22nd April), just hours after being transferred to another Island care home, a female resident of Cameron House on Pelhurst Road, Ryde sadly passed away.
The cause of death has not been confirmed.
A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council has said:
“We are deeply saddened to have been informed that a former resident in one of the urgently closed care homes has passed away shortly after arriving at her new accommodation. Our thoughts are with the resident’s family and we extend our sincere condolences.
Island Echo understands that residents were moved between locations in taxis, with some transported as far as Emsworth, Farnborough and Bournemouth. When asked why for-hire vehicles were used instead of specialist transport, the spokesperson added:
“Every effort was made to support the residents’ comfort, dignity and wishes during the required transfer of care. Considerable care was taken to ensure that all residents were assisted compassionately and transferred with the necessary medical support in place.
“This is a deeply personal loss, and our heartfelt condolences are with their loved ones and care teams.”
It was back in March that news first broke of the closure of the trio of care homes.
All 3 Casa di Cura Ltd-operated homes remain empty.
This is such a terrible thing to happen. Poor lady
Very sad news what is becoming of care in this country.
Absolutely disgusting. One reaches a certain age and noone cares. Pushed around like cattle . No dignity or compassion.
I certainly fear getting old with the outlook on old age. Golden years…not anymore unless you have money.
That is very true, youngsters should remember they too
may get old one day!
what a disgrace the total lack of care shown by the home owners. Pity they couldnt be forced to stay open till vacancies could be found on the island,
My thoughts exactly, the system is letting them down.
It is sad but it MIGHT not have been caused by the move, care home residents are usually not terribly healthy. Missing a care home bed is not so tragic for the person, only uncomfortable for and missed by family and friends.
All care home residents that have to move – have – to use the jargon – their best interests and well being compromised.
What happened here was disgraceful and the local authority should be ashamed.
Island residents should stay on the Isle of Wight.
There are 54 new rooms available at Blackwater Mill.
No residents should move off the island.
Especially not in a taxi.