Staff at the Model care home in Ballymoney have been told that their jobs are at risk after the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) successfully applied to ‘cancel the registration of this service’ due to ‘serious concerns’.
The Ballymoney Bubble understands the Model Care home has now been given a 30-day notice to close.
The Model Group (NI) Ltd, which owns and operates the Model care home, was ordered last year to close another of their facilities — the Court care nursing home, also in Ballymoney — by the RQIA over concerns over the financial viability of the house.
At that time the closure left 27 residents forced to move with 50 staff members losing their jobs.
A RQIA spokesperson has told the Ballymoney Bubble that:
“As a result of serious concerns in relation to the registration status of The Model Care Home, Ballymoney, and an absence of assurances around its financial arrangements, on 13 June 2022, RQIA made a successful application to a Justice of the Peace to cancel the registration of this service.
“RQIA acknowledges that this is a very difficult time for residents and families of The Model Care Home, and its staff. At present we are working closely with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, who are engaging with residents and their families directly affected by these circumstances.
“RQIA must ensure that management of The Model Care Home is held accountable for the safety and wellbeing of its residents, and its business and financial arrangements to support the delivery of safe and effective care. In the absence of such assurances RQIA must exercise its duties under the legislation. Throughout this, our focus remains on the safety & wellbeing of its residents.”
North Antrim MLA Jim Allister has voiced his dismay at the move to close the Model Care Home. saying: “I am dismayed that the Model Care Home in Ballymoney has been placed under notice of closure. From discussions I had with the RQIA yesterday it is clear that this is not because of care issues but is purely because of finance.
“This pays scant regard for the interests of residents who are now to be forced from their home.”
The Model Group (NI) Ltd have been contacted for comment.
