CONCERNS are mounting over the future of a residential home in Saughall Massie amid rumours that it could close.

Girtrell Court in Woodpecker Close is currently home to 13 residents aged between 23-68 with a range of disabilities.

But their long-term care is in doubt because the building is deemed unfit for purpose by Wirral’s adult social services department and without significant investment will have to close within five years.

In its report to Wirral’s cabinet committee last Wednesday, the department announced a series of proposals, which include an independent living scheme for residents, the possibility of moving residents to other areas outside Wirral and re-deployment of current staff.

A department spokesman said no decision has yet been made as a consultation period is underway and some residents have already expressed a desire to move into supported housing.

But Pat Croft, whose 50-year-old daughter Hilary is a resident, is convinced the home will close and the building used for something else.

Hilary was born with cerebral palsy and is partially sighted. She has lived in Girtrell Court for 22 years and parents Pat and John Croft are in their 70s and live in Meols.

Mrs Croft told the Globe: “If it closed it would be unbearable for Hilary. As you’re getting older, you want to be close to your family.

“It would be horrendous if Hilary was forced to move from Girtrell Court to a place further afield. It’s just so distressing.

“The residents are very happy there and the care they receive is fantastic. There has been talk of residents moving into an independent living, which would be impossible for someone like Hilary.”

Moreton West and Saughall ward councillor Simon Mountney said: “The paper that went before cabinet on Wednesday said that the building was not fit for purpose, but £20,000 has recently been spent refurbishing the home.

“The people who live here are being treated like they don’t have any capacity for thinking.

We need to carry out social services reviews.”

A Wirral Council spokesman said: “Officers from the department of adult social services are continuing to consult with residents and so far, no decision has been made about Girtrell Court’s future.”