AROUND 70 elderly people must find a new place to live with two Dorset care homes announcing they will close over the coming weeks. 

The Old Refectory, Swanage, and Delph House, Poole, have recently announced they are due to close. 

Hantona, the firm behind them, has blamed 'financial difficulties and circumstantial factors' that have impacted trade. 

Director Jacqueline Haigh said in a letter, seen by the Daily Echo: "It is with great sadness that we, at Hantona, write to inform you that we have taken the very difficult decision to cease trading.

"As I’m sure you can appreciate, this is not a decision we are taking lightly - the care homes have been our source of great love and passion for many years, and knowing all the residents has been a joy for us.

Financial difficulties and circumstantial factors have laid heavily into our trading ability, and we find that we must make this decision at this time."

According to recent CQC reports, a total of 49 people are said to reside in both residences.

Ms Haigh added: "We have taken this difficult decision in order to protect all the residents of the homes, their families and all that work at the homes."

She described the news as both difficult and upsetting, however, Hantona will 'help in any way it can, within its permitted remit'.

Both Dorset Council and BCP Council are aware of the situation and are reportedly helping to rehome residents.

A BCP spokesperson said: "BCP Council is working closely with Hantona Limited to support residents and their families to move safely to an alternative accommodation.”

The Old Refectory received a good rating from the CQC in March 2023 after a £800,000 renovation on the building. 

A Dorset Council spokesperson added: "Dorset Council are aware of the situation and will work closely with Hantona Ltd to support the company, residents and families, through this process."