Rotherham care homes safe, says Southern Cross

ELDERLY residents of Rotherham care homes have been reassured about the future of their care after the company that runs them hit financial troubles.

Southern Cross Healthcare, which runs six care homes in Rotherham as well as Swallow Wood Care Home in Mexborough, recently reported half-year losses of £311 million.

It is the UK's largest care home operator, employing 44,000 staff, of which the company has already said it will cut 3,000.

But after an emergency meeting last week, the company said that a four-month restructure plan would address its financial troubles.

A joint statement released after the meeting said: “Southern Cross, its lenders and the Southern Cross Landlords’ Committee have reached an agreement to ensure that the continuity and quality of care for all 31,000 residents will be maintained and that every resident will continue to be well looked after.

“The company and the landlords will work towards a consensual solution to the company’s current financial problems over the next four months.”

Southern Cross homes in Rotherham include The Abbeys Care Centre in Rawmarsh; Alexandra Nursing and Residential Home in Thrybergh; Ladyfield Nursing and Residential Home in Kiveton Park; Laureate Court Care Centre in Wellgate, Silverwood Care Centre in Sunnyside; Swallownest Care Home; and Swallow Wood Care Home in Mexborough.