Alternative locations being sought for wards of the State as homes can’t make deadline for licensure

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Alternative locations being sought for wards of the State as homes can’t make deadline for licensure

Plans are being made to find alternative locations for the wards of the state at three of 13 unlicensed homes.

This has become necessary as these homes have indicated that they cannot make the July 1st deadline for licensure and will be shut down by law.

The unlicensed homes were initially told to have their licences in hand by March 31st or they would face closure. However, a three-month extension was given by Minister Ayanna Webster-Roy to 13 facilities.

Among the facilities that were given the extensions were the St Jude’s Home for Girls, St Mary’s Children’s Home, Mary Care Centre, Lady Hochoy Home, the Transitional Home for Migrant Girls, Casa De Corazon, Jairah/Raffa House, Ferndean’s Place, Chickland Children’s Home, Joshua Home for Boys, Cyril Ross Nursery, Operation Smile and Marian House.

In a GML report, the Children’s Authority stated that they will be seeking to reintegrate children with their families or provide alternative placement options, where possible, appropriate and in the best interest of the child.

Gender and Child Affairs Minister, Ayanna Webster-Roy revealed that the St Jude’s Home for Girls in Belmont will not make the July 1st deadline

The home’s manager, Deoraj Sookdeo, told the media house that a fire on April 29th on the second floor of a main building at the facility had set them back greatly. But Sookdeo said a proposed change in location could save the day.

Sookdeo said he is hoping the state finds a location soon. He said he anticipates that within two weeks, they will have a clearer idea as to their future location.