VULNERABLE residents are facing being moved miles away if a threatened Malvern residential home is to close.

Seven elderly residents, all of whom are also sensory-impaired, could lose their homes at Tanglewood, on Albert Road South, if it closes because of a lack of money.

The nearest similar centre for deaf, blind and deafblind people is in Birmingham, but does not cater for elderly care.

The home underwent a £250,000 refurbishment after being taken over by Sense in 1998. To keep it open, the charity says extra money must come from Worcestershire Social Services.

Members of the 20-strong staff this week voiced their criticisms and concerns about the situation, accusing Sense of not doing enough.

Care assistant Jenny Jones explained that the needs of residents were totally different from those of the more able elderly.

"They use different methods to communicate, such as tapping, signing and other gestures. The skills to be able to understand them have been passed on by senior members of staff," said Mrs Jones.

West Worcestershire MP Sir Michael Spicer has written to Sense expressing his concern.

Sense's regional director Peter Cheer said rising costs meant even if the home was full it would still operate at a deficit.

"If the home does close, the help we provide to enable people to make a smooth transition to a new home would depend very much on the individual resident," he said.

A decision on its future should be made next week.