A WORRIED sister has voiced concerns her brother may be moved from the residential home he has lived in for 26 years.

Vicky Hatfield, whose severely disabled brother lives at Crofters Close, in Droitwich, says her family has been told the home could be closed and moved elsewhere in Worcestershire.

The home houses a small number of people with learning disabilities and complex health needs, and is run by Worcestershire County Council.

The council has confirmed it is looking for new accommodation, as the current building is "not suitable as a residential home in the long-term."

But Miss Hatfield, who lives in Bromsgrove, says a move could have harmful consequences for her brother.

"This is not just a care home it is their home – some of them have been there for over 30 years," she said. "A lot of them can't take change. He [her brother] doesn't like to be away home.

"My concern is they are going to pick him up, place him somewhere he is going to be uncomfortable. He won't understand his surroundings, it could make him ill."

The 40-year-old continued: "My mum can't travel far, if he is moved to the other side of Worcestershire my mum won't be able to see her son.

"We have no idea where he is going to be placed. Nobody is clear on anything. My worry is that they will place him somewhere and we will have no say in it.

"I appreciate there is cost cutting going on throughout the UK, however they have got no consideration for the people who live in this property and how it is going to affect them physically and emotionally."

Councillor Sheila Blagg, county council Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Adult Social Care, said: "The safety and quality of living for the residents at Crofters Close in Droitwich is our number one priority.

"The Council has not made a decision to close Crofters Close. However, it has recognised that the current building and environment is not suitable as a residential home in the long-term.

"Therefore we've been actively discussing with residents and their families alternative and more suitable accommodation for the future. In the meantime, Crofters Close provides a high quality service with dedicated staff.

"We will always ensure that the needs of residents are met, they are safe and that their future is secured and we'll ensure any moves go as smoothly as possible."