A 100-year-old care home on Broughty Ferry’s waterfront has closed.
Staff and residents of Ferry House marked the end of an era at the home for women as its doors shut for the final time on Thursday March 21.
The building in Gray Street has been deemed no longer fit for purpose and residents have all been found new homes.
Operator, Hillcrest says the site will now be redeveloped into affordable housing.
Susan French, who has managed the home for ten years, said: “It’s an extremely poignant time.
“Not only have we enjoyed close relationships with our residents and staff but we have been a massive part of the local community.
“I would like to pass on my personal thanks to everyone who has brightened up our residents’ day with a wave and a hello and to the families of our residents who have, and remain to be, so supportive.”
Broughty Ferry care home to become housing
All residents have now settled in to new homes and staff moved to new jobs after Ferry House closed on Thursday.
Chris Robb, Hillcrest Futures head of business development and improvements, said: “Hillcrest was approached by the previous board of trustees to take over the venture and manage the closure of the care home.
“The building is no longer fit for purpose so we have been working with residents, families and staff to ensure their needs have been put at the forefront of the closure.
“This has involved working closely with Dundee and Angus Health and Social Care Partnerships to ensure we assist residents in securing suitable alternative accommodation.
“We appreciate the impact the closure has had on people and the decision was not made lightly, however we have ensured that everyone has been suitably rehomed and all staff have had the opportunity to take up alternative employment within Hillcrest Futures, meaning no jobs have been lost.”
Ferry House first opened in 1921 and was a residential home exclusively for elderly women.
The original home on King Street was known as the Ferry Home of Rest for the Aged and Infirm.
It moved to Gray Street in 1938.
The home was taken over by Dundee-based Hillcrest Futures two years ago after residents were told it would no longer be able to run.
Ferry House hailed as ‘unique home with excellent staff’
Staff and locals have taken to social media to pay tribute to the home.
Former worker Marion Milne commented on Facebook: “Oh wow what a hard day today saying goodbye to friends I don’t think I’ve cried so much as I did today on my last shift.
“I will take my happy memories of the ladies and keep them all in my heart.”
Susan Henderson wrote: “Thank you to all of you at Ferry House who looked after my mum Betty with such loving care, kindness and patience.
“We couldn’t have asked for better and will always be grateful to you all.
“Thank you for the care shown to us as a family too, what a special place and amazing team sending you all lots of love and wishing you and the ladies who have now moved all the best for the future.”
Joan Strichen said: “Ferry House was a unique care home with excellent staff.
“I am so glad my sister spent her last couple of years being looked after in the warm caring environment.
“My special thanks go to Marion with whom my sister had a special bond.
“All the best to the staff for the future.”
And Kerry Andrews added: “So sad.
“You all gave these ladies the most wonderful lives in their times with you.
“The care and standards you had were unmatchable.
“Good luck to you all in your new posts wherever they are.
“I’m sure the memories of Ferry house will last with you all forever.”
