Care homes stay in public hands following Kirklees judgement

Two care homes in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, will stay in public hands, at least for now. That’s following a court injunction stopping the Labour-run local authority from selling the homes to private operators. The Canary has previously reported on this developing story. Campaigners have expressed concern that privatisation would suck money away from local care and lead to inadequate standards.

Care home campaigners have issued the following statement:

While the judge ruled against us on technical grounds, this is far from over. Our legal team representing Brenda Hughes, a resident of Castle Grange, believes we have grounds for appeal and are already preparing the next stage. Crucially, the court has granted an injunction preventing
Kirklees from selling the homes until the appeal process is concluded.

This means Castle Grange and Claremont House remain in public hands – and residents stay
protected.

These care homes are not surplus assets. They provide essential, specialist dementia care, are highly rated by inspectors, and are deeply valued by residents, families, and dedicated staff. They represent dignity, stability, and compassion in later life.

Recent reports show the Council is meeting its financial targets. So why sell homes that offer
excellent value for money, work well, and serve the community? We believe care should remain
accountable to the public, not driven by profit. There is still time to change course.

And let’s remember: this is not the first time a fight like this has gone to appeal and succeeded.

When campaigners challenged the downgrade of Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, the initial judicial review was unsuccessful. But the Court of Appeal overturned that decision.

Victories can and do happen. This is not the time to give up hope.

We want to thank every supporter who has stood with us. Today’s ruling is not a defeat – it’s a step
in a longer fight. The care homes are safe for now, and together we will keep pushing for a future where care stays public.

Stay hopeful. Stay involved. Stand with us. We’ll share updates as soon as we can.

Featured image via the Canary