Russell House, MHS sheltered accommodation for older people, will be shut down over the next six months and replaced by a foyer for vulnerable young people. This is despite opposition from local Labour Councillors and the wider community.

Cllr Tristan Osborne, Labour Councillor for Luton and Wayfield and Spokesperson for Community Safety said, ‘The decision to close Russell House and replace it with housing for vulnerable young people is totally ill-conceived. High levels of drug related crime and antisocial behaviour make this site a poor choice, and MHS has not provided any real reassurances about their plans to prevent these already vulnerable young people from falling prey to local gangs.

‘With insufficient police numbers and crime up by 35% last year in Medway, we need to be making smarter strategic decisions aimed at making Medway safer.  I would urge MHS to think again about what the soon to be vacant property is used for and I know the wider community feels very concerned for these vulnerable young people.’

Cllr Vince Maple, Councillor for Chatham Central and Medway Labour Group Leader said, ‘The decision by MHS to close Russell House is a very disappointing in the face of strong opposition from current residents and the wider community.

‘Loneliness and social isolation for older people is on the rise and residents are concerned they will be moved to a more remote location far away from friends, the wider community, and the local amenities. We heard first hand at the recent public meetings how some residents had moved to Russell House on the commitment it was a “House For Life” – those residents will feel badly let down by MHS.  Considering older people need the opportunity to remain as independent as possible, this decision is not in the best interests of current residents.’


Loneliness and isolation in older people: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/loneliness-in-older-people/

Crime stats: https://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway/news/crime-goes-up-by-35-7-194976/

"With insufficient police numbers and crime up by 35% last year in Medway, we need to be making smarter strategic decisions aimed at making Medway safer. I would urge MHS to think again..." Cllr Tristan Osborne, Labour Councillor for Luton and Wayfield and Spokesperson for Community Safety
Cllr Tristan Osborne, Labour Councillor for Luton and Wayfield and Spokesperson for Community Safety
"We heard first hand at the recent public meetings how some residents had moved to Russell House on the commitment it was a “House For Life” – those residents will feel badly let down by MHS." Cllr Vince Maple, Councillor for Chatham Central and Medway Labour Group Leader
Cllr Vince Maple, Councillor for Chatham Central and Medway Labour Group Leader
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