RESIDENTS at an extra care facility in Christchurch have compared their tenancy to ‘a prison’ claiming they were told they could not meet to discuss concerns.

Aster Group, landlords of Bure House in Loring Road, say they welcome residents getting together to talk about issues.

However, both Christchurch’s MP and county councillors have spoken out after being made aware of the current situation.

It is claimed that residents are not able to organise meetings together without a representative from the housing association being present.

There is no formal residents’ group at Bure House and there are also frustrations over the increased care charge implemented by Dorset County Council.

On the inability to meet to discuss issues as tenants, a resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “We pay rents, we pay quite a lot of money and we have not been put here as a prison sentence. This is our home and if we want to sit down to discuss any issues we should be able to do this. It is our prerogative.”

Tenants at Bure House have informed Dorset County Council of their proposals, which include receiving a breakdown of the care charge and an ability to pay for only the aspects of the service residents need.

Cllr David Jones said he fully supported the residents’ position and said being allowed to voice issues collectively should always be maintained.

Christchurch MP Sir Christopher Chope said he has written to both the county council and the housing association.“It seems to me that the residents have genuine grievances and I am concerned,” he said.

“When housing associations were first introduced they put tenant consultation at the forefront of their agenda.

“Residents are paying a significant sum and deserve to have their say.”

An Aster Group spokesperson said: “While there is no formal tenant group at Bure House, we do meet with residents regularly to discuss any concerns they may have and we would encourage residents to call us if there are any issues that they’d like to discuss outside of these meetings.

“We are more than happy for residents to get together to talk about the issues that are important to them and welcome any approach.”

Dorset County Council said residents have faced a phased increase in charges since January 2016, which reached the full charge of £62.09 per week in April this year.

Cllr Jill Haynes, Dorset County Council’s cabinet member for health and care, said: “We are continuing to work with residents and providers to look at a blended, fair model which will be determined by ongoing consultations, meet Care Act regulations, and provide the right care and support to those who need it most and promote people’s independence and contact with their local community.”