A national care home that has a branch in Gerrards Cross has revealed they DO plan to shut their doors permanently, and have explained why.

The Buckinghamshire’s Leonard Cheshire outlet on Packhorse Road has been within the town since 1988 and is the home to more than 20 disabled residents.

The venue had also been known for its work in the Gerrard Cross community through fundraisers for numerous charities and seasonal events.

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However, it was alleged that the residents, their families, and the staff were notified of the decision to close the establishment by next February at the start of this month.

It was reported that some employees were ‘in tears’.

A spokesperson from Leonard Cheshire told the Free Press: “Chiltern House requires a considerable amount of investment to undertake essential works.

“Upgrading the service so it can meet demand and preferred choices from disabled people in the future would cost vastly more.

“In recent years, the service has seen income not keep pace with rising costs.

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“Recruitment for some key roles has proved difficult in recent times.

“We’d faced problems securing a suitable permanent manager with interim leadership currently in place.

“The service has experienced high agency use for extended periods previously.

“We appreciate any closure proposal causing a degree of upset and worry and we are working closely with everyone impacted.

“However, given the long-term trends at Chiltern House, we cannot justify the kind of long-term financial commitment necessary to modernise the service so it has a sustainable future.

“Having considered all the circumstances and with great regret, we are now proposing to close Chiltern House. 

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“We have met residents and their families individually and will also be collaborating closely with commissioners to sensitively manage the situation.”

A consultation period is due to end on October 5 with the fate of the residents and staff being left in limbo.

Mark Newton, who has been a resident at the venue since 1997, added: “I came back from holiday to hear the news and I couldn't believe it.

"I was nearly in tears.

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"This home means a lot not just to our residents but their friends and family too.”

However, hope is not entirely lost as a campaign to save the branch is due to be launched. 

It will be spearheaded by former employee, Kimberly Cahill, in the coming weeks. 

Supporters are being encouraged to contact the town’s MP Joy Morrissey, along with the Leonard Cheshire Disability head office to raise awareness.