I have been contacted by many residents from Ivy House and The Old Vicarage in Wellington regarding the news that the Abbeyfield Society, that runs the enterprises, is considering withdrawing from running these properties. I called for an urgent meeting to ensure the voices of residents and local people were heard and I joined the subsequent meeting which was held on Tuesday, bringing together interested parties.
I have met with a number of residents who, not surprisingly are deeply worried about their future. The consultation on the proposals will run for a significant period and Abbeyfield, which is a not-for-profit company, conveyed that their preference would be to find an alternative provider to take over the properties. Abbeyfield themselves are consolidating their business and looking to reduce their portfolio of properties especially those requiring investment in terms of maintenance. I will continue to engage with the company and will report back in due course.
