New owners for nursing homes

New owners for nursing homes

23 June 2021

TWO Downpatrick nursing homes have a new owner.

The Strangford Court and Lecale Lodge care homes are among a group of 13 Four Seasons Health Care properties across the province which have been purchased by family-owned healthcare operator, Ann’s Care Homes.

News of the purchase, which the new owners say will secure over 1,100 jobs across Northern Ireland and ensure the continuity of care for the homes 650 residents, has been confirmed this week.

Ann’s Care Homes director, Ann McQuade, said the company is delighted to announce its expansion with the acquisition of the 13 nursing homes from Four Seasons Health Care (FSHC). 

“Our ethos is quality care that is delivered with integrity and consistency and the continuity of care of all residents at this time is our number one priority,” she said.

“We are committed to maintaining the high standards of care delivered by FSHC and thank them for their support to date.

“We are working closely with them and the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority and the regional trust’s to ensure a smooth migration of operations and all parties will ensure a seamless transfer for all stakeholders.”

Ann’s Care Home also insists that it will continue to work with the teams to develop existing staff whilst delivering the highest quality care and support to the residents and their families.

“The distinctive character and personality of each of the acquired care homes will remain and there will be no changes in staffing,” confirmed Ann McQuade.

“We are all one team and are dedicated to providing the highest standards of clinical care and support to maintain a high quality of life for all residents.” 

FSHC’s Northern Ireland managing director, Carol Cousins, said the business has a long history of providing a diverse range of nursing and residential care across the province.

“Although it is with a degree of sadness that we formally announce the sale of 13 operating care homes to Ann’s Care Homes, we are truly delighted to be transferring the ownership to a local Northern Ireland business who have a long and established homecare and agency service. 

“The ongoing wellbeing and comfort of residents has been our priority throughout the sales process, as it is for Ann’s Care Homes,” she continued.

“We will work closely together and in conjunction with local health and social care trusts to ensure a smooth transfer of the operations of the homes. There will be no job losses.”

She added: “There are no changes to the existing care arrangements.  “The Ann’s management team will be welcoming three of the senior management team from Four Seasons, giving further assurances to residents, families and staff teams that the same standards of care and compassion will continue.”