Due to ongoing recruitment challenges and concerns around resident safety, NHS Highland has made the difficult decision to begin an emergency short-term suspension of service at Strathburn House care home in Gairloch.
NHS Highland and The Highland Council have been exploring alternative options and agree that this course of action is necessary in the circumstances.
NHS Highland staff is supporting residents and their families to identify appropriate new placements for the seven residents in the care home.
Pamela Cremin, NHS Highland’s Chief Officer for Community Services, said: “This has been an extremely difficult decision but this is the safest outcome for the residents of Strathburn House.
“We recognise this decision will cause anxiety among residents, relatives and staff but the health and safety of the residents remains our top priority
“We are in discussion with residents and families with about relocation to appropriate new placements as soon and as safely as possible.
“The staff working in the care home have worked tirelessly to maintain the delivery of care for the residents and I want to thank them for their ongoing dedication. All staff will be offered alternative roles in other community services within the area.
“We will be working closely with the local community to discuss the future options for the delivery of sustainable adult social services in the area in line with the Highland Health and Social Care Partnership’s Joint Strategic Plan.”