Hadrian Healthcare has said it is being forced to close a nursing home unit at a care home in Gateshead.

Seventeen residents are currently housed in the unit with the timing of the closure still to be decided.

A spokesperson for the home said:  “The decision to close the nursing care element of the service at our home has been a very difficult one, and it has taken a long time to get to this position.

“While we appreciate that this service is much needed in our local community, we are now at the stage where we are unable to continue to provide nursing care on the basis that the NHS and ICB nursing fee arrangements remain at levels which do not take our costs into consideration and continually restrict our ability to provide a sustainable service.

“Over the last twelve months, the local authority has taken the time to listen to our concerns and, whilst they understand our position, we are advised that they themselves are constrained to work within their own budgets.

“Over the years, we have developed and maintained an outstanding service and a very competent and stable group of registered nurses who are well trained and confident in providing excellent care for our residents, together with the wider care team. We are proud of what we have achieved and are deeply saddened by the decision we have had to make.

“We appreciate that this is a difficult time for everyone involved and we have done our utmost to communicate with all those involved in a sensitive and timely manner. Our focus and priority during this transitional period is to support our residents, their families and any employees who may be affected by this change.”

A Gateshead Council spokesperson said: “The decision to no longer provide nursing care at Manor House, due to the high costs of running the service, is recognised by the council.

“Over the last twelve months, we have worked closely with the home to address concerns around funding the service and to look at alternative solutions with hope of maintaining the nursing unit for as long as possible.

“Following the home’s difficult decision to close the unit, alternative provision is being agreed on with all service users and we will continue to support those who have been impacted by the closure over the transitional period.”