A CARE home, which opened almost 30 years ago, is set to close leaving relatives of residents concerned for their futures.

Badgers, in Rayleigh Avenue, Eastwood, is owned by charity Field Lane and opened in 1993.

Marion Wilcox’s twin brother, Robert Weeks, has been a resident at the home since then.

Marion, 70, who grew up with Robert in Rayleigh but moved to Lincolnshire 17 years ago, said: “It’s a brilliant home. The manager is amazing, I am very close to her.

“I honestly believe that my brother was lucky after his accident and that he is still alive today because of the care Badgers has provided him with.

“I am so upset that Field Lane is prepared to sacrifice these people.”

Marion’s brother was found unconscious on his boat in Leigh in 1988 while the tide was out and rushed to hospital. It was deemed a “miracle” he survived, but he still needs around-the-clock care.

Marion slammed Field Lane for its “impersonal letter” to residents’ families.

The company confirmed it was not “financially viable” to keep the home open.

Marion added: “In the last two years the home built two new rooms and spent thousands on refurbishing the garden after a substantial donation. The news is a huge concern and the fact we have been given no time scale.”

Jacky Own, director of operations at Field Lane, said the decision to consider closing Badgers was one that the board of trustees took significant time over and one that was reached with a “heavy heart”.

She said: “We have always valued, extremely highly, the quality of the care and the work to support the residents at Badgers.

“However, it had become clear over time that, despite significant investment, we were struggling to fill vacancies and, as a result, it was difficult to see a viable future.

“We will be doing what we can to manage this in as sensitive a manner as possible, as well as continuing to consider alternative options.

“Looking forward, we will also be working with other professionals to ensure that any potential transition for residents is as smooth as we can make it.”