The campaign group which successfully prevented the closure of Faversham’s Minor Injuries Unit has come together once again – to fight the axing of Kiln Court.

Earlier this month, Kent County Council revealed it would close four residential care homes across the county it deemed “no longer fit for purpose because there was a greater demand for sheltered accommodation and nursing homes”.

Kiln Court, in Lower Road, could now be facing closure as early as next March, with a loss of 42 jobs.

The site could then be sold off to developers without any requirements to retain it as a care home.

But as ever, the Faversham community is not willing to let its valued service go without a fight.

Brenda Chester, co-ordinator of the new committee, Faversham Health Matters, said this week: “It is being presented almost as a done deal, exactly a repeat of the consultation on removal of outpatients’ services from Faversham – decision already made, regardless of local people’s views.

“This 30-bed unit provides residential accommodation, respite care, special care for dementia patients and those patients needing rehabilitation after leaving acute care, before going home.

“KCC claim that the building is not fit for purpose and care can be provided by independent providers. Where is this capacity close by?

“Do these providers want to provide short-term care?

“It is clear KCC has been working towards this closure – they have not been referring people for permanent residential care, and they ceased the provision of the valuable day centre, which gave both patients and carers a welcome break.”

Last week Faversham Town Council discussed the closure at its monthly meeting and passed a resolution to invite the KCC cabinet member to the next meeting, but the Faversham Health Matters group says it is not sure of the effectiveness of this.

The group is planning a range of events, including market stalls, a petition and a public meeting.

A Facebook group has already received many new followers and anyone interested in getting involved in the campaign should email fhm15@yahoo.co.uk.

KCC is running a consultation until December 20. Full details are available by clicking here.

To read stories from families of loved ones who have been cared for at Kiln Court, including Sandra May and her aunt Edith, pick up a copy of the Faversham News, out now.