Care home owners seek fees parity over postcode lottery

The Old Vicarage in Llangollen, Denbighshire, is getting thousands of pounds a year per resident less than Orme View in Llandudno because it depends on the fees set by its own council.

Although it has had an increase this year, it is a lot less than care homes in Conwy county.

The fees for the most basic care in Conwy county are £846 a week, but in Denbighshire they are only £774.

Bethan Mascarenhas, who run the Old Vicarage, said the difference means she has to charge residents top-up fees to make ends meet.

“It’s very disappointing,” she said.

“As somebody who’s very invested in the work that they do, we really strive to give the absolute best level of care and that could look like great food, good drink, good activities, things that are meaningful to us.

“Unfortunately, the divide between the fees will make that difference in what you can provide.”