A win for Norfolk’s care homes; the proposed sale is withdrawn
The proposed sale of 20 Norfolk care homes has been withdrawn. This is welcome news for residents, families and care workers, and for everyone who has campaigned against the sell-off.
The proposed sale of 20 Norfolk care homes has been withdrawn. This is welcome news for residents, families and care workers, and for everyone who has campaigned against the sell-off.
This was one of the first issues I raised in the council chamber after being elected. Labour has opposed the plans from the outset because we believe vital public care services and the assets that support them should remain in public hands.
These are people’s homes, supported by dedicated staff. Decisions about their future must put residents first.
But the withdrawal leaves important questions. Norfolk’s care estate needs investment, and families and staff deserve certainty about what happens next. How much public money has been spent pursuing the sale? What does its withdrawal mean for Norse’s finances? And why has so much of the process taken place behind closed doors?
I am calling for a full public report to Cabinet, with the council’s external auditors asked to examine the process and whether it represented value for money.
This is a significant victory, but our work continues. We need properly funded, sustainable care services that put Norfolk residents first.