TWO sheltered housing facilities in Wellington are to close, as they are no longer “financially sustainable”.

The Abbeyfield Society, which runs Ivy House and The Old Vicarage, has announced it intends to close the properties.

Sheltered housing is a type of accommodation for people who can live independently, but live in a development with some support available.

However, in May last year, The Abbeyfield Society launched a consultation over the future of the Wellington properties – which currently house a combined 45 people – after it was unable to find a provider to take over running them.

Now, it has announced it intends to close them, although no date has been set.

An Abbeyfield Society spokesperson said: “Since the consultation began, we have consulted at length with a large number of stakeholders about the potential options available to try and keep the homes open and serving their community.

“Having explored all avenues we cannot see a way of maintaining the properties as financially sustainable services that are fit for purpose in the future.

The Old Vicarage in Wellington

“As a charity, we never want to close any of our homes, however, part of being a responsible organisation is recognising when you need to make a difficult decision, and this regretfully was one of those occasions.

“Our priority now that we have announced closure is to provide affected residents with the support they need to find alternative accommodation where they will be happy.

“We will be doing everything we can to ensure that the closure and moving process runs as smoothly as possible for them.”

In response, Somerset Council has said it will provide support and guidance to residents, including advice on alternative housing options.

Councillor Sarah Wakefield, lead member for adult social care, said: “I am saddened and concerned by the news that Ivy House and The Old Vicarage will be closing and understand the impact that this will have on the residents and their loved ones.

“We had hoped that it might be possible for another operator to take over these facilities but this has not proved possible.

“Our teams are willing and prepared to help them through this difficult time and will absolutely make sure they have access to the support and information they need.

“We recognise the value and importance of sheltered housing for older people in our communities, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that there is a sufficient supply of affordable and quality accommodation for our ageing population in Somerset.”

Ivy House is also set to close. Picture: Google

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture, added: “I am deeply saddened by the news that The Abbeyfield Society will be closing Ivy House and The Old Vicarage, which have been home to many older people in our community for years.

“We understand that this must have been a very difficult decision, but we are concerned about the impact these closures will have on residents, their families, and staff at both homes.

“People who live in sheltered housing tend to be elderly and vulnerable, and need stability and security.

“Supporting affected residents to find alternative accommodation that meets their needs and preferences is our top priority, and we will work closely with Abbeyfield to ensure a smooth and respectful transition for everyone involved.”

Anyone affected who needs housing advice and support can contact Somerset Council online via somerset.gov.uk/housing-support/homelessness-and-prevention/homelessness-advice-and-assistance.