Months on from receiving a ‘requires improvement’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Brainkind, which runs The Chantry in Chantry Park, has said it will close its services on April 30, 2026.
The Chantry was taken over by Brainkind in 2023 and provides care for neurological disabilities including dementia but says that following a review of the premises, it would require multi-million investment to bring into modern health standards.
Earlier this year, the service received a ‘requires improvement’ rating from CQC but Brainkind stressed that the decision to close “is not related” to the closure.
Some 90 jobs are at risk as a result of the move, Brainkind said.
Ayesha Trott, executive director of service delivery at Brainkind, said: “The wellbeing of the people we support is our number one priority. It is with deep regret that we can no longer deliver our services from The Chantry.
“As a 350-year-old Grade II-listed building it is both costly and difficult to maintain and develop in line with modern healthcare needs and practices. The people we care for live with complex neurological conditions and can also suffer from physical disabilities, dementia and sensory impairments.
“Sadly, the building’s design and setting within a public park mean it is no longer fit for purpose and is limiting the experience of the people we support.
“We have explored all viable options but have been unable to find alternative suitable premises in the local area. We are now working closely with the council and other partners to ensure that all 18 people currently in our care are safely relocated to appropriate settings.
“While up to 90 jobs are at risk, we are doing everything we can to identify redeployment opportunities within our other facilities across the region.
“The decision to close the service is not related to the CQC rating of the service. The CQC inspected The Chantry in November 2024 and found the service to be requiring improvement.
“Since then, we have been working hard to address the CQC’s recommendations and have already made significant improvements, but ultimately, the building’s age and layout limit what can be achieved.
“The priority is ensuring that the people Brainkind support receive care in an environment that fully meets their needs, now and in the future. Unfortunately, The Chantry is no longer suitable for the complex care we provide.”
In July, the facility suffered a gas leak.