Parents Fight To Save Hollyrood Care Home in West Sussex

Two families have instructed Irwin Mitchell to investigate a legal challenge into a decision to close a care home supporting autistic adults in West Sussex.

The Disabilities Trust, which operates Hollyrood Care Home, near Haywards Heath, plan to close the facility in three months’ time, arguing the building is no longer fit for purpose.

Irwin Mitchell is representing the parents of two of the residents, who say the impact on their families will be devastating.

Jackie Cheeseman, whose son, Euan, has lived at Hollyrood for six years and Louisa Spivack, whose son, Daniel, 45, has lived at the home for 18 years, have instructed specialist public law and human rights lawyers at Irwin Mitchell. Lawyers have written to The Disabilities Trust urging it to reverse its decision or face a potential judicial review into the decision in the High Court legal action.

Expert Opinion

“Proposals to close care homes that provide such essential services always raise strong emotions and it’s vital the views and needs of residents and their families are fully taken into account.

“Our clients feel strongly that they were not consulted before the decision to close Hollyrood was made and would face a race against time to find suitable new homes for their adult sons, for whom Hollyrood has been a safe space and a home for many years of their lives and a vital part of ensuring their needs are met.

“We have identified legal grounds to challenge the decision and we look forward to the response of The Disabilities Trust by 21 September.” Oliver Carter - Associate Solicitor