A victory for the frail and elderly was hailed this week, when, after over four hours of probing and discussion by Hounslow Council's Scrutiny and Overview Committee, the decision to close John Aird House care home was thrown back to the Executive Committee with a recommendation that the decision be reconsidered.

Councillors at the meeting held on Monday, April 28th, raised serious concerns over the continued well-being of the current residents of the house should they have to be moved to different homes. They were not satisfied that the answers provided by representatives from Hounslow Council's Social Services and Technical Services allayed their fears that some of the 18 permanent residents of the home might suffer mortally adverse effects, as a result of being forced to move.

The committee unanimously decided that the decision should be reviewed by The Executive, in the light of more recent information and urged them to strongly consider the option of allowing John Aird residents to spend their remaining days at the home, whilst filling the empty beds with respite care patients.

The decision was hailed by protesters against the closure as a triumph. Deborah Read, whose mother is a resident at the home said: I am really pleased as it was the best option. Hopefully the decision will not take too long and John Aird House will remain open for the sake of the elderly people who live there.''

Her thoughts were reiterated by Cllr Andrews, who commented, The Executive will be under lots of pressure to come to the right decision, because they won't be keen for it to go to full council. I'm cautiously optimistic but we will remain vigilant. I'm pleased that we have won round one.''

Cllr Edwards, whose ward covers John Aird House added: The Scrutiny Committee made the decision the Executive should have made. It would seem that the Executive didn't have all the facts they needed. The respite care option will make the proposal to keep the home open economically viable.''

Cllr Kirton, the independent member on the committee said, I'm very happy that the extra information and bigger picture was seen. The recommendations are spot on.''

Cllr Andrew Morgan-Watts, who had initially been extremely concerned that the committee could have blood on its hands' if it did not reverse the closure decision, said: If the decision made tonight saves just one life, then it is the right decision.''

Yvonne Hossack, the lawyer fighting on behalf of the residents, said: I'm absolutely delighted. This has been the most careful scrutiny I've seen. Despite my fears, it was clear to me last week that having read Joly's report councillors showed humanity in their decision tonight. I hope that this will be used as an example of good practice with council's everywhere.''

On hearing the news, Ann Keen MP said: I am pleased that the appropriate bodies are continuing to talk, as this is a serious and distressing issue, however at the same time, we must continue to drive up standards for our older residents. I am confident that the democratic process has been followed and that the council Executive will continue the dialogue with the residents and relatives to find a satisfactory outcome.''

John Aird House had been facing closure after a decision by the Executive Committee had deemed it surplus to requirement and had wanted to redistribute resources. However, in doing this, they were widely criticised for not taking into sufficient account the effect this would have on the home's elderly and frail residents.

The matter will now return to the Executive for reconsideration, which, if successful will allow the current residents to remain at John Aird for as long as they require. However, if the Executive reject the Scrutiny Committee's proposal then they may force the matter to be considered by the full council.

May 1, 2003 16:00