A COUNCIL-run residential home which caters for dementia sufferers is earmarked for closure.

It could soon be time to up sticks for residents at Seddon Court where the eldest is 99 years-old.

Last Thursday the authority’s social services and human resources representatives met with families of residents to discuss the future at the Prescot Road home.

An upset member of staff at Seddon Court told the Star: “It was just sprung on us on Thursday. Staff were asked if they wanted voluntary redundancy and given their figures or given the option of filling in a form requesting redeployment. Over 40 staff could be affected.

“Colleagues have been told by a councillor that the closure just needs rubber stamping.

"What’s upsetting is what they are doing to the residents. Staff are very close to them and any upheaval will add to residents’ confusion.”

A council spokesman confirmed consultations were underway regarding the closure of Seddon Court.

“There are currently just six residents and there is spare capacity at a neighbouring council-run care home – Brookfield Resource Centre – to accommodate those residents,” he said.

“To achieve the modern standard required by the Care Quality Commission would require substantial investment including the creation of en-suite facilities and increasing the size of bedrooms.

“The council is consulting with staff, residents and their families affected and will consider the consultation responses before a final decision is made.”

Former Mayor of St Helens and UKIP campaigner John Beirne said: “The Council has streamlined this home and kept residents out, leaving it almost empty.

"The tactics used have been disgraceful. The decision to close is yet to be ratified by the full council.

"It’s not the government closing this home but a Labour council using tactics the Tories would be proud of!”

A staff member said: “They put money in to refurbishing Seddon Court yet it is 12 months since they stopped accepting permanent residents.

"Brookfield doesn’t take permanent residents so if they go there how long will it be before they are moved again?”