Councillors recommended to keep residential care home open until March 2024

The home, which provides residential care and support for people aged 65 and older, including those with dementia, has been managed for many years by Pobl (formerly Gwalia) on behalf of Neath Port Talbot Council.

The building was constructed in 1974 and while an extensive programme of refurbishment has been undertaken including a new roof, upgraded bedrooms and updated communal areas, it is accepted it is coming towards the end of its operational life.

On October 11th, 2022, members of Neath Port Talbot Council’s Social Services, Housing and Community Safety Cabinet Board will be asked to consider these three options for the home’s future:

Option 1: Do not extend the current contact with Pobl, resulting in Trem Y Glyn closing after 31st March 2023.

Option 2: Enter into an agreement with Pobl to extend operations in Trem Y Glyn until 31st March 2024.

Option 3: Enter into an agreement with Pobl to extend operations in Trem Y Glyn until 31st March 2025.

The Cabinet Board is being recommended by officers to adopt option 2.

Regarding option 2, a report to the Cabinet Board says : “It has been highlighted that the care market in Neath Port Talbot and across Wales was in a state of flux due to the impact of COVID-19 and it was difficult for officers to predict with accuracy what impact Trem Y Glyn closing could have on the ability for the council to appropriately react to these changes.

“The current view of officers is that the social care market continues to be unpredictable and unstable. As such, officers feel that closing Trem Y Glyn at this point in time could put further pressure on the health and social care system. Furthermore, it is the view of officers that this position is likely to last for another 12 months.

“In light of the current market position in terms of stability and sufficiency, officers recommend that the Director of Social Services is granted delegated authority to conclude negotiations with Pobl and enter into a Deed of Variation with Pobl, so that Trem Y Glyn can continue to operate until March 31st 2024.”

Council officers will also present a strategy for older people’s services in September 2023 so that members can make an informed decision on Trem Y Glyn post March 2024.