Well established Laois Nursing Home announces shock closure

A Laois nursing home is to close due to escalating costs and regulatory challenges. 

Ballard Lodge Nursing Home on the Borris Road in Portlaoise announced the shock closure earlier today. 

“It is with deep regret that we announce the forthcoming closure of Ballard Lodge Nursing Home after 21 years of providing dedicated care to the community of Portlaoise, Laois. This decision has been made after extensive consideration and due to regulatory challenges, that have made continued operation unsustainable.  

Ballard Lodge Nursing Home is home to 24 residents and provides employment to 32 staff. 

Management have described the decision to close as heartbreaking. “It is heartbreaking for us, heartbreaking for the staff. Some of the staff have been with us for 21 years,” a representative said.  

Management are meeting families of each of the residents individually and say accommodation is available within the county for those who want it.

“For many years, we have strived to provide the highest standard of care for our residents, ensuring they receive the respect, dignity and support they deserve. We have been privileged to serve the community and to build strong relationships with residents and their families, who have placed their trust in us. This trust has been upheld by our dedicated staff, whose professionalism, compassion and commitment have been central to the care we provide. We extend our sincere gratitude to every member of our team, past and present, for the unwavering dedication,” the nursing home said in a statement earlier today.   

"The economic and regulatory landscape in which we have operated has become increasingly challenging, especially for a nursing home of our size. The Fair Deal Scheme, under which we provide care, does not reflect the true cost of delivering high quality, specialised care in today’s environment. Escalating costs, including those related to staffing, medical supplies and essential services such as energy and food, have placed an unsustainable strain on our ability to continue operations.”  

Management said they had contacted local TDs in relation to pressures they were facing. 

Ballard Lodge Management said: "We are fully engaged with the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) and other relevant authorities, to ensure a smooth transition for our residents. We are working closely with families and care providers to identify suitable alternative placements that meet the needs of each individual resident. Our priority remains the well-being of our residents, and we will take every step necessary to minimize disruption and ensure that they continue to receive the highest standard of care.”   

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“We also acknowledge the impact this decision will have on our valued staff. We are committed to supporting them through this process and assisting them in every way possible during the transition.  

"We sincerely thank our residents, their families and friends, our staff and the wider community for their support over the years. It has been a privilege to be a part of so many lives, and while this is an extremely difficult decision, we take pride in the care and commitment that has defined Ballard Lodge Nursing Home throughout its years of service,” the management said.   

They said further information regarding the transition process will be communicated directly to residents, families and staff in the coming days.

The Leinster Express/Laois Live contacted HIQA for comment in relation to the closure.  A spokesperson said “HIQA is aware that the registered provider of Ballard Lodge Nursing Home is planning to cease operations.”