RESIDENTS with learning disabilities and mental health problems who had been living together for decades have been split up as a result of two care home closures.

Staff working at homes run by Guinness Care and Support have broken ranks to speak out about the moves amid fears of the "devastating" impact the changes will have on the lives of the vulnerable residents.

The closures affect Fair Bungalows in St Thomas and Merthyr in Exminster, where residents had lived together for more than 20 years.

The changes are already having an impact on the residents' behaviour, staff have claimed.

One member of staff, who asked not to be named, said: "I have been employed by the company for some time and am aware of the closure of several care homes in Devon and Exeter for people with learning disabilities and mental health problems.

"These were all very good care homes with long-term residents living in a good environment. Obviously this caused great emotional distress to many residents and a big upheaval for staff."

The staff member added: "Two homes in particular stand out as being very sad to lose. These were Fair Bungalows in St Thomas and Merthyr in Exminster.

Both of these were good and well-run learning disabilities homes.

"Fair Bungalows shut in early June 2011. This home had some people who'd been living together for over 20 years and although some have managed to stay together, others had to move into homes where they knew nobody.

"Undoubtedly this was a traumatic experience for all of them, leading some towards negative and challenging behaviours brought on by their distress."

Another member of staff said: "Merthyr in Exminster closed last month and had a small group of women living there who had been living together for over 20 years. None of these residents have been able to stay together. Again, I can imagine this must be very strange and distressing for them.

"To me, this level of distress and upheaval is unacceptable and I feel incredibly frustrated on behalf of the residents.

"Obviously it is a complicated issue and we are experiencing a time of government cutbacks so inevitably people receiving social care will suffer. How much of this is Guinness's fault and how much it is due to local government I can't say. It just felt it was important to flag the issue up in some way."

A spokesman for Guinness Care and Support said: "We are committed to providing the best possible personalised care.

"Following a review, two homes for adults with learning disabilities have recently closed.

"Guinness Care and Support believes that our residents' wellbeing is our top priority. Our staff have worked in partnership with the local authority, families and advocates to ensure that a smooth transition to other services has taken place. Residents' needs have been at the forefront throughout."

Are you or a family member affected by any of the changes? If you are call Tom Bevan on 01392442229.