10th July:

Following meetings at both Ivy House, and the Old Vicarage Retirement and Assisted Living homes in Wellington, MP Rebecca Pow requested an urgent meeting with the chief executive of Abbeyfield to seek some clarity on their future, and some reassurance for the residents.

Rebecca Pow MP said:

“Having met with residents in both settings it is clear there is a huge amount of uncertainty surrounding the future of these homes which is causing a great deal of anxiety for the residents. I had a full and frank discussion with the chief executive, Paul Tenant, for which I am grateful. I sought assurances that the residents’ concerns will be fully recognised. I stressed that the announcement that Abbeyfield would be consulting on the futures of both Ivy House and the Old Vicarage has caused a great deal of distress. I am pleased that following the meeting Abbeyfield will now be writing to each resident shortly explaining in more detail the options under consideration. I will continue to work with local stakeholders to seek a way forward. Abbeyfield itself is a not-for-profit company with a remit to cater for the elderly in particular, and it is important that those finding themselves caught up in the review of the Abbeyfield estate are suitably involved and taken account of.”

Friday 16th June:

I have been contacted by many residents from Ivy House and The Old Vicarage in Wellington regarding the news that the Abbeyfield Society, that runs the enterprises, is considering withdrawing from running these properties. I called for an urgent meeting to ensure the voices of residents and local people were heard and I joined the subsequent meeting which was held on Tuesday, bringing together interested parties. 

I have met with a number of residents who, not surprisingly are deeply worried about their future.  The consultation on the proposals will run for a significant period and Abbeyfield, which is a not-for-profit company, conveyed that their preference would be to find an alternative provider to take over the properties. Abbeyfield themselves are consolidating their business and looking to reduce their portfolio of properties especially those requiring investment in terms of maintenance. I will continue to engage with the company and will report back in due course.