CARE South says efforts to find alternative accommodation for residents of one of its care homes, which is due to close next month, are progressing well.

The operator decided in January to close Heathlands in Constitution Hill Road after 21 years because it was no longer viable.

The home was registered for up to 51 people with dementia but had only 26 residents when the closure was announced.

Susan Willoughby, chief executive of the not-for-profit charity and care provider, said: “We have been working very closely with the Borough of Poole and relatives. All is going to plan.

“There has been lots of consultation with regard to where residents are going to move to.

“Many of them now know where they are going, but the majority haven’t moved yet.

“One or two have left at their request, but the majority are going to other Care South homes.”

She added: “The moves are being planned in a calm and sensible way. Staff are doing a brilliant job.

“The most important thing is making sure residents find placement suitable to meet their care needs.”

Individual meetings are also being held with members of staff to find them alternative employment, including within Care South.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Borough of Poole is working closely with Care South to ensure a smooth transfer to alternative accommodation which will meet the needs of the residents.

“All the residents have had their needs assessed to ensure that any new accommodation can meet their individual needs and also meets the wishes of the individuals and their families. Some residents have moved already and other moves are in the process of being arranged.

“Two of the residents have taken the opportunity of a move to find a care home nearer to their families outside of the area.”