Handsale has announced the closure of Bierley Court care home in Bradford due to the difficult economic climate.

The care home operator told the BBC “exorbitant energy prices and high interest rates” had led to the decision to close the service.

A Handsale spokesperson said: “This decision was not taken lightly, however, the adult social care industry has unfortunately felt these economic changes more acutely after years and years of government underfunding in the sector.

“We are working closely with our partners at Bradford Council and the Care Quality Commission to ensure the safe transfer of the residents to other care settings in the local area.”

A Bradford Council spokesperson said: “We have been made aware of the decision by Handsale Ltd that they have ceased operating services at Bierley Court Residential Care Home in Bradford.

“Bradford Council’s, Department of Adult Social Care and local NHS partners will be working closely with all residents at Bierley Court to support them in finding alternative care home accommodation as quickly and safely as possible with minimum disruption.

“We recognise that this is a very distressing and worrying time for the residents, their families and carers, however, the welfare and safety of residents at the care home remains our top priority.”