Bolsover Socialist Party press release
People opposed to closing 12 care homes and dementia day centres held a protest against Tory Derbyshire County Council.
“It has been heartrending to hear from families whose loved ones are going to have to face moving, and the effect it will have on their health”, said Bolsover Socialist Party member Elaine Evans.
Scandal
Socialist Party member Ronnie Rogers said: “It’s an absolute scandal that the council spent £2.9 million refurbishing New Bassett House in 2023, and now plans to close it. Elderly residents in a lovely home, with lovely staff, will be turfed out.
“If a private company takes it over, we all know what that means – worse jobs and worse care for the residents, so the owners can make a profit. That’s what’s happened to children’s homes across the county. Profiteering means we pay more, but get less.”
Campaigners have raised questions at Shirebrook and Old Bolsover Town Councils, calling on them to liaise with Bolsover District Council, and take action to save these homes.
Speaking at the 14 December protest, Socialist Party member Jon Dale said these Labour-controlled town and district councils should make clear they will obstruct planning permission for any new owners attempting to redevelop or change use of the sites.
Labour’s choice
“If the county council rushes through closure of the homes, our district and town councils should use reserves and borrowing powers to keep the homes open, until May’s county council election.
“Labour should commit to reopening all closed homes, if they win that election. They should demand the money needed from the Labour government. But if Labour councillors won’t fight for these vital services, we need councillors who will.”
Local Socialist Party members will discuss with other trade unionists and community campaigners about standing candidates, as part of the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC).
