NEARLY two dozen elderly Dudley residents have been given just 28 days to move out of their care home which is earmarked for closure – says the GMB Union which has branded the situation “inhumane”.

Residents and staff at Holbeche House in Wall Heath have reportedly been told the home is to close and those living there have been given just weeks to find a new place to live.

The home has 48 beds and currently has 22 residents and 32 permanent staff - and it also relies on agency staff.

Holbeche House was originally a Four Seasons care home but the property – once the hideout of Guy Fawkes and the gun powder plot conspirators - is now operated by Belsize.

The union says staff have been invited to one-to-one meetings, scheduled for today (Tuesday May 10), to discuss their future.

GMB organiser Rachel Fagan said: “This sudden closure has created chaos for residents and staff.

“Almost two dozen people – many who’ve lived in Holbeche for years – have been given just 28 days to move out. It’s inhumane.

“Meanwhile workers are suddenly told they’re losing their jobs and being called into meetings, but not being told they can have their union rep present.

“The residents of Holbeche and those who care for them deserve better than this.”

GMB Union is expected to stage a demonstration outside the home today.

BKR Care Consultancy Ltd has been contacted for comment about the closure plan.