An ICB has decided not to reopen a Norfolk reablement centre despite opposition from local campaigners.

A survey by Healthwatch Norfolk found the majority of residents wanted Benjamin Court in Cromer to be reopened as a reablement centre but Norfolk and Waveney ICB said this did not fit in with the ‘other services already available and the model of care we want to provide, or which is financially viable’.

A spokesperson for the ICB said: ‘In line with the recommendations from Healthwatch Norfolk, we have asked NHS Property Services to keep us and the local community informed of progress with the site.

‘We will continue to keep under review the services available in north Norfolk, and if other opportunities arise to invest in services, we will explore them fully, as we have with Benjamin Court.’

Cllr Alison Thomas, cabinet member for adult social care, said Norfolk County Council would be able to support about 1,500 more people in 2024 due to switching care into people’s homes.

The council said 39% of people receiving home based reablement had been fully reabled, compared with 13% when bed-based reablement was delivered at Benjamin Court.

Cllr Thomas added: ‘Since Covid, demand for home-based reablement has increased which is why we want to tailor our service to provide more support in this way, with the NHS focusing on in-patient support for people with higher medical needs.

‘Research has shown that you can recover much faster at home in a familiar environment, as your own bed is the best bed for recovery. Hospitals are where you get treated and home is where you get well. Those with medical needs will be supported by the NHS, either in community hospitals or via virtual wards.’

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