Future of Worthing’s Only Council-Run Dementia Care Home in Doubt

The future of New Tyne, Worthing’s only council-run residential care home for older people, hangs in the balance as West Sussex County Council prepares to decide whether to close it.

The home, which currently supports 13 residents with dementia – including one aged 104 – is said to be too costly to maintain.

A recent review found each bed costs the council around £1,532 per week, compared to an average of £1,000 in the private sector.

On top of this, the building needs £1.46m in capital repairs, money the council says it does not have.

Amanda Jupp, cabinet member for adults’ services, will make the final decision in October. Closure is the only option currently on the table.

Alan Sinclair, the council’s executive director for adults’ services and health, described the proposal as “not an easy recommendation at all”, praising New Tyne as “well-loved, well-run and very caring”. But he said the council’s financial position left “no other option possible”.

If the home does close, social workers will support residents and families to find suitable alternatives, with independent advocacy provided where needed.

New Tyne is rated “good” by the Care Quality Commission, but officials say demand for residential care is falling due to growth in extra care housing and improved home support services.

The scrutiny committee raised concerns about the lack of consultation with residents, families and staff.

Unison representative Dan Sartin argued the council had a legal duty to consult, saying:

“We’re talking about moving people out of their home.”

Some councillors suggested delaying the decision to allow consultation, while others said this could offer “false hope” given that closure appears inevitable.

The committee has instead called for “full engagement” with those affected ahead of the final decision.

Reviews of the council’s five care homes for people with special needs are also planned – but, unlike New Tyne, those will include a formal consultation period.