Invercairn Court, Cairnbulg

We understand the frustration and concern expressed by residents of Invercairn and other rural communities. These are not just policy decisions—they affect people’s homes, their sense of place, and the future of their communities.

Firstly, it’s important to clarify that the Housing Revenue Account (HRA)—which funds council housing services—is entirely separate from Council Tax. The HRA is funded solely through rents paid by council tenants, and it is legally ring-fenced. This means it cannot be used to fund other council services like roads, libraries, or schools, and likewise, Council Tax cannot be used to subsidise housing services. This distinction is crucial when considering how housing decisions are made and funded.

Regarding the perception that rural areas are being unfairly targeted: the review of sheltered housing schemes is based on a range of factors including building condition, accessibility, demand, and long-term sustainability. The 17 schemes currently under review includes schemes in larger settlements, and were identified because they face the most significant challenges in these areas not because of their location. However, we acknowledge that rural communities often feel the impact of service changes more acutely due to fewer alternative options.

We also want to recognise the vibrancy and resilience of Invercairn. The presence of local shops, clubs, religious groups, and community events like the award-winning Gala are clear signs of a thriving village. The proposed pharmacy, the Heritage Way project, and even the potential golf course all point to a community that is active, engaged, and forward-looking.

Your point about public transport and community support is well taken. While formal transport links may be limited, the informal networks of neighbours helping neighbours are a powerful asset that should be factored into any assessment of community viability.

We are also aware of the anxiety caused by uncertainty—especially for those who have recently been offered places in Invercairn Court. We want to reassure residents that no final decisions have been made, and that all feedback—like yours—is being taken seriously as part of the consultation process.

We understand and deeply respect the strength of feeling within the Cairnbulg and Inverallochy communities regarding the proposed changes to sheltered housing, including Invercairn Court. The council recognises that for many residents, these homes are not just buildings—they are the heart of their community, filled with decades of memories, relationships, and support networks.

In response to the widespread concern, Aberdeenshire Council has emphasised that no final decisions have been made about closures. The current process is part of a comprehensive review of 17 sheltered housing schemes, driven by long-term sustainability challenges, including building maintenance costs and changing demand.

The council has committed to:

• Engaging directly with tenants and communities through public sessions and surveys to ensure that any decisions are informed by those most affected.
• Providing personalised support for any tenants impacted by changes, with a focus on dignity, compassion, and continuity of care.

The council encourages all residents to continue participating in consultations and to submit feedback via the official sheltered housing review portal, where all input will be considered in the final report to the Communities Committee in July.

We fully understand that relocating can be a deeply emotional and challenging experience, especially for vulnerable residents who rely on familiar surroundings, routines, and community connections. That’s why, if a decision is made to close a scheme, we are committed to ensuring that every step of the process is handled with care, compassion, and individual support.

Here’s how we will support residents:

1. Personalised Support Plans
   Each tenant will receive a tailored support plan developed in close consultation with them and their families. This will include understanding their preferences, health needs, social connections, and emotional well being.

2. Staying Local
   Wherever possible, we will prioritise finding alternative accommodation within the same or nearby area. This helps tenants stay close to family, friends, and the community services they know and trust.

3. Familiarity and Continuity
   We will aim to match tenants with accommodation that offers a similar level of support and environment to what they are used to, helping to maintain a sense of continuity and comfort.

4. No Rush to Move
   There will be no pressure to move quickly. We will take the time needed to find the right option for each individual, ensuring they feel safe and confident in their new home.

5. Ongoing Communication
   Tenants and their families will be kept informed throughout the process, with regular updates and opportunities to ask questions or raise concerns.

6. Emotional and Practical Support
   Our housing teams will be available to support and assist with everything from viewing new properties to settling in, and we will work closely with health and social care partners where required, to ensure a smooth transition.

If the closure of Invercairn Court goes ahead, no one will be left without support or accommodation. The council has committed to a person-centred, fully supported relocation process, which could take months or even years. Each tenant will be offered individual support plans, with the aim of finding suitable alternative housing as close as possible to their current community, family, and support networks. All available data is noted on the engage page and this is being updated during the consultation period.

At this time, no final decision has been made about the future use of the Invercairn Court if the sheltered housing scheme is closed.  We have confirmed that any future use of the building must deliver best value for tenants through the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). However, no specific plans or proposals for re-purposing the building have been made. This means that, as of now, the building’s future remains undecided and will depend on the outcome of the ongoing consultation and decision-making process.