Maidstone resident Marjorie Timson left scared to use own garden after disturbances at Sapphire House care home in Tonbridge Road
00:01, 20 October 2015
A woman is too scared to sit out in her own garden after disturbances at a neighbouring residential home.
Marjorie Timson and her partner Shaun Miller live next to the Sapphire House care home in Maidstone and say vulnerable adults are often heard shouting and swearing late at night and have caused extensive damage to their shed and fence.
The Tonbridge Road home, which opened in April 2014, can provide residential support for eight people with autism, learning disabilities and communication difficulties. The building was formerly occupied by the Vine Medical Centre.
In video footage seen by the Kent Messenger, a male resident can be heard shouting, swearing and breaking items in the garden. He also made a number of death threats, although it is unclear whether these were aimed at any individual.
Earlier this month, a 21-year-old resident was arrested on suspicion of assault and causing criminal damage. He has been released on bail until November 6.
Mrs Timson, who is in her 50s and has lived in Tonbridge Road for 20 years, said: “I don’t blame the people in the home, I blame the agencies. I don’t know if they’re not being trained properly, but surely I shouldn’t feel scared in my own home?
“Our life is just hell. We can’t sit out in our garden as we just don’t know when it will kick off next. We can’t let our four-year-old granddaughter play outside as we’re scared she’ll hear the shouting.”
Mrs Timson has contacted various agencies but says she has seen no action taken.
Craegmoor, the company which runs the care home, said: “We would like to reassure residents that we always investigate concerns and move swiftly to make improvements wherever necessary.
“This service cares for people with complex needs. We have made a number of changes, including the appointment of a new registered manager and enhanced staff training.
“We will continue to work extremely hard to ensure that any issues are resolved.”