Somerset Care has cited “financial challenges” in launching a consultation on the closure of two residential care homes.

The not-for-profit provider said its 1970s-80s properties, Critchill Court in From and Sunnymeade in Chard, were “regrettably unable to keep pace with the increasingly complex care requirements of 2024 and beyond”.

A spokesperson said “dated and restrictive layouts, high running costs, repair and maintenance requirements” meant the homes were “no longer financially viable, environmentally sustainable or fit to safely meet the care needs of the future”.

In the consultation announcement, the care provider said “chronic underfunding of the adult social care sector on a national level, along with the financial emergency declared by Somerset Council” meant that local authority fees did not cover its real cost of care.

While alternative care settings are being sought for residents, Somerset Care said jobs at the two services were at risk.

The care home operator added it would consult on opportunities for redeployment if redundancies were necessary.

Somerset Care said it had engaged with Somerset Council, UNISON and the CQC on the proposal.

UNISON South West head of social care, Helen Eccles, said: “Shutting down these two homes will be disastrous for dozens of people in need of help and support in later life, as well as their families.

“Chard and Frome, are small rural towns with limited services and few alternatives for anyone who wishes to stay close to their loved ones nearby.

“Somerset Care is proposing to relocate elderly residents, many of whom have dementia, potentially miles away from their families.

“The emotional impact is already taking a toll on staff at the two homes who’ve shared their concerns with their union. Many are concerned about unsure of their futures. Somerset Care must reconsider.”

A spokesperson for Somerset Council said: “We are aware of the consultations taking place regarding the proposed closures of Critchill Court in Frome and Sunnymeade in Chard and we are working closely with Somerset Care. The safety and wellbeing of residents, whether local authority-funded or not, is our top priority, and our adult social care team have already been on site to support residents and their families during this difficult time.”