Reinstate elderly care in Faversham & review safeguarding risks at Acacia Court (formerly Kiln Court)

We, the undersigned residents of Faversham, call upon Kent County Council, Swale Borough Council, and our elected representatives to:

1. Reinstate a permanent elderly care facility in Faversham to replace the former Kiln Court home.

2. Conduct a formal review into the suitability and safeguarding risks of the current use of Acacia Court, which now houses asylum-seeking males just metres from a local primary school.

3. Guarantee full community consultation and safeguarding transparency in all future building use decisions.

This is not a petition against those seeking refuge, but a call for responsible planning, local fairness, and safety for all —especially our elderly and our children.

Why This Matters:

The former Kiln Court care home served Faversham’s ageing population until its closure in 2016.

No replacement has been provided locally. The building has now reopened as Acacia Court, housing up to 32 males whose ages have not all been formally verified. Proof of documentation has been requested from both Acacia court and the council with no response. 

Acacia Court is located adjacent to a primary school, raising real and reasonable safeguarding questions in the wake of recent UK incidents.

This decision was made without adequate prior community consultation, and it repurposes a public facility with no public voice.

We Demand:

1. An independent public review of Acacia Court’s use and its proximity to local schools.

2. A reinstatement plan for elderly care services in Faversham.

3. Transparent policies on age verification and safeguarding procedures.

4. Full and early public consultation on all future changes of use for former public buildings.

■■ Add your name to call for action today. Faversham deserves proper care for its elderly and protection for its children