Leonard Cheshire has cited recruitment and building upgrade costs as reasons for its proposed closure of a Buckinghamshire care home.

The disability charity plans to close Chiltern House in Gerrard Cross if the proposal is confirmed after a consultation.

A spokesperson for Leonard Cheshire said: “Chiltern House requires a considerable amount of investment to undertake essential works. Upgrading the service so it can meet demand and preferred choices from disabled people in the future would cost vastly more.

“In recent years, the service has seen income not keep pace with rising costs. Recruitment for some key roles has proved difficult in recent times. We’ve faced problems securing a suitable permanent manager with interim leadership currently in place. The service has previously experienced high agency use for extended periods.

“We appreciate any closure proposal causes a degree of upset and worry and we are working closely with everyone impacted. However, given the long-term trends at Chiltern House, we cannot justify the kind of long-term financial commitment necessary to modernise the service so it has a sustainable future.

“Having considered all the circumstances and with great regret, we are now proposing to close Chiltern House. We have met residents and their families individually and will also be collaborating closely with commissioners to sensitively manage the situation.”

Angela Macpherson, cabinet member for adults and health, said: “Buckinghamshire Council has been informed by Leonard Cheshire Disability of their intention to close the Chiltern House care home in Gerrards Cross. They have informed us that in recent years, the service has seen income not keep pace with rising costs. In addition, recruitment of key positions has also proved difficult for some time and interim leadership and agency staff have been needed for extended periods. As a result, Leonard Cheshire Disability feel the service is not financially viable and have stated they intend to close the service.

“Leonard Cheshire is carrying out a 30-day consultation with all residents, their families and carer networks, as well as staff working at Chiltern House.

“The council will support the residents of Chiltern House throughout the consultation and beyond, and is committed to working in partnership with residents and Leonard Cheshire to ensure care and support needs will be fully met. 

“The closure does not relate to any concerns surrounding standards or quality of care.”