Re-tender will not affect respite care, says council

Respite care home Newton House will stay open until at least September 2026, as Bath and North East Somerset Council promises that families will face no gap in support while theserviceisretendered.

- John Wimperis Local democracy reporter johnwimperis@reachplccom

The facility on the edge of Bath is the only place in the area where people with the most severe care needs who live with their families can access overnight respite care, a short stay away from home so their full-time carers can have a short break.

But it has been slated for closure after care provider Dimensions which runs Newton House said it had become unaffordable.

Now the council has said that Newton House will remain open until the end of September in 2026 while it puts the contract for a replacement service out to tender.

Parents had originally been told by letter in November that it would close at the end of January this year - but it was pushed back after a major outcry from parents.

Council cabinet member for adult services Alison Born said: “We know how important Newton House is to the families who use it.

“We are committed to keeping that support going while we work on a long-term plan.