Agincare has confirmed it has exchanged contracts to acquire two Somerset Care homes previously threatened with closure.

The two providers began talks last month after Somerset Care had begun a consultation on closure citing “financial challenges”.  

A spokesperson for Agincare said: “Agincare can confirm that we have exchanged contracts with Somerset Care regarding Critchill Court in Frome and Sunnymeade in Chard, and that our team are excited by the prospect of welcoming them into the existing network of 29 care and nursing homes.

“We look forward to working with Somerset Council to manage, invest in and develop Critchill Court and Sunnymeade care homes, ensuring their long-term future, safeguarding jobs and providing local people with the peace of mind of having a home in their own community.”

Agincare highlighted its track record in the “successful transfer and management of care homes and other community services from local authorities, charities and other such organisations”.

This includes the takeover of previously threatened services, Beaufort Park retirement and care home community in Burnham-on-Sea and Furlong Close supported living community in Rowde.

A Somerset Care spokesperson said: “As an independent, regional, privately-operated, not-for-profit care provider without any shareholders, it is sadly no longer financially viable or environmentally sustainable for Somerset Care to continue to deliver high-quality care in these two care homes. We therefore believe that transferring ownership of Critchill Court and Sunnymeade to Agincare is the right and responsible thing to do.

“Somerset Care has exchanged contracts with Agincare, who are a family-owned care provider who operate a number of care homes around the country, including one in Somerset. They have committed to continuing to run the businesses as care homes, supporting current residents with
care which meets their needs, in the environment which they already call home.

“The employment of all current staff at Critchill Court and Sunnymeade is protected in law. We view these plans as a positive opportunity for Critchill Court and Sunnymeade, and all those who live and work there.”

A Somerset Council spokesperson said: “We are pleased that Agincare, a private family run organisation, will take over two residential care homes which were at risk of closure – Critchill Court in Frome and Sunnymeade in Chard – from Somerset Care.

“This is positive news for the residents, family members and staff of both sites and we are delighted that two care homes which are hubs of their local communities can remain open.”