THE FIRGROVE Hill care home which has been under threat from closure because of a shortfall in funding from Surrey County Council, is to remain open now that a financial agreement has been reached.
The charity Mencap, which provides support for Firgrove's residents who have learning difficulties, had threatened to withdraw its services unless Surrey County Council agreed to a new pay structure.
It required an additional £130,000 to be distributed amongst all care homes across Surrey.
However, following a meeting between Mencap and Social Services last week, an agreement has been reached which will enable the charity to cover its costs and continue providing round-the-clock care.
Alison Shea, Mencap's Regional Housing and Support Manager, commented: "We and all the people we support are very relieved we have reached an agreement with Surrey. This is a positive step for people with a learning disability in Surrey, but funding for other services still remains an issue."
In a bid to increase the efficiency of the home and provide a service tailored to specific need of residents, a review of living arrangements has taken place.
Some of the residents who may not require the 24-hour service provided by Mencap will move out into "supported living" environments with fewer people, where they will be more independent.
Those who require greater levels of support will be moving to different housing which better suits their needs, while the remaining residents will stay in the current home.
Yvonne Waltham, Surrey Social Services, Local Services and Community Care Manager said: "We are delighted that a joint solution has been reached. We will continue to work closely with Mencap, the people living in the homes, and their families to ensure that the new developments are delivered."