A new research project into the effects of care home closures in Wales has been awarded £130,000 by the National Institute for Social Care and Health Research (NISCHR) for an 18 month study.
This topical research will study the implications of care home closures and examine the effects of relocation on the health and well being of older people.
Lead researcher, Professor Vanessa Burholt, Director of the Centre for Innovative Ageing at Swansea University, together with her colleague Professor Judith Phillips and Sarah Stone, Deputy Commissioner for Older People in Wales, will study the prevalence, process and impact of the closure of care homes in Wales.
Sarah Stone commented: “It is in response to the numerous concerns of older people across Wales relating to care home closure, that we feel there is a need for well grounded research into the impact of care home closure. It is our aim to identify good practice and consider the consultation process and how it takes into consideration the rights, needs and wishes of older people. We look forward to working in collaboration with Swansea University on this project.”
The research project replicates a similar study conducted in England examining the prevalence and process of care home closure, but will also look at outcomes for those involved in four care homes closed in Wales in the last year.
The project, led by Professor Vanessa Burholt, will explore the issues associated with closures of care homes in Wales, and ways in which local authorities can support those affected.
Professor Burholt said: “This project will identify areas where the process of closure departs from Welsh Assembly Government guidance and will provide examples of good practice which could be used in further guidance. The closure of care homes is an emotional topic for those affected and therefore the research will also identify the impact of particular processes of closure on the well-being of older people, their relatives and carers.
“In doing so the team aim to ensure any further guidance will assist key support workers during the closure of a care home, and positively impact on the experiences of older people undergoing relocation.”
