A TRADE union has joined campaigners in their fight against a council’s plans to axe care homes.

Unison Kent branch has launched a petition to oppose Kent County Council’s (KCC) controversial proposal to change the way residential care is provided.

The Limes, in Brent Lane, Dartford, is set to be closed within the next two years while Manorbrooke in Bevis Close could be replaced with extra care housing.

Kent branch secretary David Lloyd said: “Unison is committed to joining with everyone who wants to defend these vital services to some of Kent’s most vulnerable people who should have the right to spend their remaining years in dignity in the home of their choice.”

KCC says no final decision is likely to be made until January next year and will be consulting with residents, their families and staff until November 1.

Cabinet member for adult social services Councillor Graham Gibbens said: “The process of consultation will only be worthwhile if unions, individuals and families give their perspective.

“The idea of consultation is to get these views, not only to listen to those who agree with the proposal.”

In the contentious move, Unison is questioning why the council intends to replace Manorbrooke when it still appears to be in good condition.

However, Cllr Gibbens says it would be wrong to wait until the buildings need more immediate work to be done.

He said: “By acting now, it is possible to give people more of a say in what happens next.”

The consultation period continues.