West Sussex County Council has confirmed its decision to cease providing residential care services for older people living with dementia, at New Tyne Care Home in Worthing, following a comprehensive review and scrutiny process.
The decision was initially made by Cllr Amanda Jupp, Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, after careful consideration of all evidence, including representations from residents, families, staff, and UNISON. Following a call-in request by councillors, the Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee (HASC) reviewed the decision at its meeting on Friday 21 November 2025.
After examining the decision report, the reasons for the call-in, and the petition submitted by UNISON, HASC supported the original decision. The Committee noted:
- The decision was not taken lightly and followed a comprehensive review.
- The services at New Tyne are not fully aligned with the Council’s strategic direction and Adult Social Care Strategy.
- Families and staff must be fully supported throughout the transition.
- Future work should ensure co-production is utilised.
- A progress report on supporting residents who move from New Tyne will be brought back to future Committee meetings.
As the Committee supported the decision, it came into effect at the end of the meeting. Implementation began on Monday 24 November 2025.
Next Steps
- All residents will be supported by dedicated social workers to ensure their individual needs are met and any move to an alternative care home is handled with care and dignity.
- No new referrals will be made to New Tyne Care Home.
- Staff will receive support throughout the transition, including help with future employment opportunities.
- Once services have ceased, the Council’s Assets Team will carry out an appraisal of the property to determine its future use.
Cllr Amanda Jupp, Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services said:
"This was not a decision taken lightly. I recognise that New Tyne is a well-regarded home with dedicated staff, and I want to thank everyone who shared their views during this process. Our priority has always been, and will continue to be, the welfare and wellbeing of residents. The review showed that continuing to operate services at New Tyne is not financially viable in the long term, particularly when balanced against the need to provide sustainable care for all residents across West Sussex. Our focus now is on supporting every resident and their family through this transition with care and dignity, and ensuring staff are fully supported as we move forward."
Updates will continue to be published on the Future Care webpage: www.westsussex.gov.uk/FutureCare.
