Residents have been left stranded  for weeks on the first floor of a Kent care home because of a broken lift.

The lift at Bupa’s Staplehurst Manor Nursing Home in Staplehurst broke down in August and is still to be fixed.

A resident’s relative told Kent Online: “The care usually provided at Staplehurst Manor is amazing; the team of caregivers is exemplary.

“But to be without the lift for six weeks is upsetting.

“It means residents are unable to access downstairs – no garden, no activities, no dining room.

“It is isolating for them and they are missing out on fresh air and vitamin D which is vital in the elderly.”

Danni Davies, managing director for Staplehurst Manor care home, said: “The safety of our residents is always our priority, as well as their enjoyment in the home. We’re very sorry that the lift in the home is not fully operational; we are working with the manufacturer to get it fixed as quickly as possible.

“In the meantime, we have arranged for the lift to be operated manually so that residents can move around, socialise and enjoy our daily activities in the home. We are keeping residents and families updated on progress and are working to have this resolved quickly.”