AN Aberystwyth care home is closing its nursing beds unit, blaming problems in recruiting specialist staff.

Methodist Homes Association has announced that the 20-bed nursing unit at Hafan y Waun will close by the end of March, with six staff members facing possible redundancy if they opt not to relocate to another MHA home.

That could see some current residents being forced to move to new homes considerable distances away from the Aberystwyth area, with MHA admitting there is likely to be upheaval for some residents.

There are currently 12 residents, but an MHA spokesperson said some of those residents had been reassessed and would be able to stay at Hafan y Waun.

MHA regional director Karen Slater said the changes were needed to ensure the safety of residents after nursing staff were forced to work extra shifts and the management team was also filling in on shifts.

She said: “Existing nursing staff are having to work many extra shifts to make sure there is enough cover at the home to make sure residents are cared for safely. In addition, the management team has also had to cover some nursing shifts. This is unsustainable.

“The safety and care of our residents is our priority."

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