Home's future uncertain

The county council is currently in the middle of a three-month consultation process with residents, relatives and staff from St Giles to decide on the long-term future of the home and the people who live there.

A new strategy for adults with physical impairments is currently being developed by the council to provide up-to-date services for people in this group and improve their quality of care and life opportunities.

The main aim of the strategy will be to develop more community and work-related services and reduce reliance on residential care.

West Sussex cabinet member Mark Dunn said: "Adults with physical impairments don't always want to be cared for in residential settings like St Giles. People usually prefer not to leave their local area and friends and relatives.

"We also have to consider that St Giles does not provide a service that meets modern standards. The building needs a great deal of improvements and maintenance work that would be extremely expensive.

We believe this money could be better spent developing more up-to-date care alternatives and this is a further reason why we are considering closing St Giles."

Each of the 21 residents currently living at St Giles will now undergo an individual assessment of their needs by a social worker and an occupational therapist. The following options will be explored:

lNursing care or alternative residential care for people with deteriorating conditions;

lSmall group homes with separate tenancies, but 24-hour care;

lSmall group homes with separate tenancies and daily care and support;

lSheltered and extra care housing;

lOwn accommodation with support and direct payments.

Mr Dunn said: "We want to hear views on these suggestions from residents, relatives, staff and the public."

You can give your views by contacting Jane Goldingham, service development manager (physical and sensory impairments), on 01273 268812 or by writing to her at social and caring Services, Glebelands, Middle Road, Shoreham, BN43 6GA.

The consultation ends on October 31 and a decision on the future of the home is expected in November.