Agincare has confirmed it is in “preliminary discussions” with Somerset Care over two care homes slated for closure.

The care home operator told Caring Times it was in talks over the acquisition of Critchill Court in Frome and Sunnymeade in Chard after Somerset Care launched a consultation on their closure earlier this month.

An Agincare spokesperson said: “Agincare can confirm that we are in preliminary discussions with Somerset Care regarding Critchill Court in Frome and Sunnymeade in Chard.

“We are aware that the prospect of closure of the two Somerset Care homes is hugely upsetting for the residents, their families and the staff.

“However, due to ongoing sensitivities in the negotiation process, it would be inappropriate for us to comment at this time.”

A Somerset Council spokesperson said: “Somerset Council has been and continues to be involved in ongoing conversations between Somerset Care and Agincare regarding the proposed acquisition of Critchill Court in Frome and Sunnymeade in Chard.

“Somerset Care launched a consultation with employees at these locations on 28 February, and this consultation has been paused whilst negotiations continue.  We can’t comment on ongoing negotiations of a commercially sensitive nature, but want to reassure residents and their families that their safety and wellbeing remains our top priority.”