Eviction threat to woman, 103, averted

The family of Esme Collins had been told they needed to find an extra 100 to pay for her care if she wished to stay at the Abbeymoor Nursing Home in Worksop – her home of 10 years.

The home claimed it needed extra cash as, due to her state of health, Mrs Collins needed more nursing care.

But that was disputed by health and social services chiefs who said she needed residential care.

Social Care Minister Ivan Lewis prevented the eviction.

Now the issue looks to have been resolved, as health and social services have agreed to foot the extra cost. But they insist their assessment was fair and accurate.

David Pearson, strategic director for adult social care and health, and Coun Alan Rhodes, cabinet member for adult services and health at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “We have met with Abbeymoor’s owners and have offered to meet the additional costs they have requested for Esme Collins’ care.

“This will be kept under review. We are awaiting a response from the owners and hopefully the lifting of the eviction.

“We are disappointed Esme’s placement was put under threat in the first place and have been working hard to get this matter resolved as quickly as possible in the best interests of Mrs Collins and her family.”

They added: “We stand by our original assessments, carried out jointly with Bassetlaw Primary Care Trust, that showed Esme’s needs are for residential care and not nursing care.

“However, we have agreed to meet the additional costs so Esme is no longer under the threat of being moved from her home.”