Families still fighting to save McClymont House

South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board's meeting, held last Tuesday, concluded with a deadlock, one that reflects the determination of the families to save McClymont House and ensure the well-being of their loved ones.

The decision on whether to close McClymont House was not passed and saw South Lanarkshire Council at loggerheads with South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership.

There was a tie in the voting (4-4) providing the families with a small, but crucial, window of opportunity, made possible only through the collective efforts of the families, friends and community who rallied together and campaigned vigorously to save McClymont House in a matter of days.

The unusual move provides the families with some much-needed breathing space, although the future of McClymont House is very much still hanging in the balance.

Families received news of the potential closure just three working days before the meeting, which they view as a concerning lack of transparency and openness in the decision-making process.

Now, the campaigners have outlined a clear path forward, grounded in their commitment to save the home from closure.

They say they are ‘deeply concerned’ that the SLIJB appears to have targeted the most vulnerable individuals in order to address a budget deficit.

Their primary concern now is to safeguard the most vulnerable citizens from the risk of eviction from their homes.

This request emphasises the need for collaborative solutions that prioritise the well-being of vulnerable individuals over cost savings.

They are also concerned that the consultation process will lack inclusivity and fairness, and are seeking reassurances that it will be comprehensive, robust and inclusive, involving a wide range of stakeholders to capture diverse perspectives and needs, and explore a number of new options.

And they want representatives of South Lanarkshire Council to meet with them collectively allowing for a comprehensive discussion of their concerns and views.

A spokesperson for the group added: “In conclusion, the families of McClymont House residents remain steadfast in their commitment to protect their loved ones and ensure that any decisions made prioritise the welfare of vulnerable citizens. They call upon all relevant authorities and representatives to work collaboratively and transparently to address these pressing concerns.”

Last week, Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire IJB said the safety and well-being of residents was the board’s overriding priority.

“At this stage, no decisions have been taken. We are committed to being open and honest and have simply informed all relevant stakeholders about the unprecedented financial pressures being faced and the options which have been tabled for consideration.”

A petition set up by families to save the much-loved facility at www.change.org/p/save-mcclymont-house-residential-home-a-lifeline-for-our-loved-ones has gathered more than 2650 signatures.

Relatives, friends and all interested parties are also invited to attend a public meeting in St Nicholas Church Hall in Lanark on Friday, October 13, at 7.30pm organised by the campaign group.