A VOLUNTEER at the county council-run Meadowfield House nursing home in Preston has told of staff and residents' misgivings over closure fears surrounding other homes.

Joe Di'Cioccio says that pensioners could die because of the heartache and stress they are feeling over the latest disruption to old people's homes.

He said: "The staff are worried about their jobs and the old people are feeling tense. I definitely believe that this could lead to a shorter life for some of them."

The problem comes after Lancashire County Council announced plans to shut down six residential care homes in the county - including Oakleigh, Lawson Street and The Limes, Porter Street.

Joe, of Crofters Green, Plungington, added: "Although Meadowfield will probably stay open there's no doubt that they will feel a knock-on effect. Staff, wages and the allocation for places will be cut."

The 37 workers at Meadowfield, in Fulwood, have being holding meetings to discuss the problem.

Joe added: "People are extremely worried about their jobs,. some are looking elsewhere and this is causing an unsettled atmosphere."

The staff at the Fulwood nursing home are now writing letters to the council expressing their concerns.

A petition, with nearly 1,000 names on, has also been set up. People have until the month end to tell the council their views.

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