A Droitwich nursing home which has been part of the community since the 1980s is to close.

Ravenstone Care Home, St Andrews Close, will close by the end of November due to staffing, occupancy and expense issues.

A spokesperson for the home said: “We understand that this will be difficult news for our residents, their families and our staff.

“It is not a decision we have taken lightly. A combination of low occupancy rates, difficulties in recruiting staff, and major expenses to bring the old building up to the standards required, sadly means the home is no longer financially viable.

“We will work closely with residents, families, and the local authority to make the transition to new homes as easy as possible. We will offer support to the staff to find new roles.”

The announcement has left the relatives of residents scrambling to find new accommodation for their loved ones.

Sonia Simpson said her family were informed by the regional manager of Larchwood Care on August 25 that Ravenstone would close by the end of November.

Ms Simpson’s 96-year-old mother had been a resident at the home since February 2016 and has been fortunate to find a new place to live.

She said: “It came as quite a shock.

“The staff at Ravenstone were fantastic and so accommodating to our needs. Let’s just hope they all secure new jobs at such short notice.”

Julie Worsfold also has a mother at the home but has not yet found her new accommodation.

In a Facebook comment she wrote: “She is very distressed at having to leave.

“All the staff have been amazing. They are staying till the very end to make sure all their lovely residents have moved.

“It’s very sad going in there and seeing all the staff still trying to be upbeat and happy in front of the residents that are still there but knowing it will be shutting its doors for the very last time very soon.”

Amy Bright-Smith used to take her therapy dog, Archie, to the home and is saddened she will not be able to say goodbye to the residents.

She said: “We are very Devastated. The home has always been a lovely place to visit. I really feel for the staff & residents.”