Campaigners win first battle against closure of long stay hospital

Campaigners have won the first stage of a high court battle
against the closure of a south Wales long stay hospital.

The families of four severely disabled residents of Llanfrechfa
Grange Hospital in Gwent were granted permission to seek a judicial
review of the health authority’s decision to close the unit
and move residents into community based care.

Mr Justice Forbes at the high court in London ruled that the
families’ complaints were “arguable”, including that there was no
adequate assessment of the psychological impact of the move on
residents.

Lawyers for families told the court that Gwent health authority
had not given due regard to the wishes of residents before
resolving to close the home. But Gwent insists it carried out full
consultation, in accordance with government guidelines.

The full hearing of the case is expected in early December.