Health Council Seeks Care Home Properties
The Bermuda Health Council is “launching an initiative to collect information and compile an internal database of privately owned properties that may be suitable for use as residential care homes and nursing homes.”
A spokesperson said, “As Bermuda’s population continues to age, policymakers are actively assessing the resources available and the system’s capacity to support the changing needs of the population, specifically around the demand for long-term care.
“As part of the ongoing assessment, the Health Council is taking a proactive step to understand what properties may be available to meet the critical needs of the community. This initiative aligns with Bermuda’s National Senior Strategy [NSS] and broader efforts to ensure a coordinated, sustainable approach to long-term care across the island.”
“This initiative is about strengthening our understanding of Bermuda’s readiness to meet the growing need for long-term care,” said a spokesperson for the Bermuda Health Council. “We know there are individuals interested in establishing care homes, as well as existing operators seeking new or expanded locations. By identifying suitable properties, we can better support informed decision-making and help remove one of the key barriers in this space.”
Who Should Submit
A spokesperson added, “The Health Council welcomes submissions from property owners who believe their space may be suitable for care home use, including:
- “Owners of large private residences with multiple bedrooms and shared living areas
- “Commercial property owners with underutilised or vacant buildings
- “Landlords and property investors open to long-term alternative uses for their assets
- “Estate and family representatives with inherited properties suitable for re-development
How It Works
“Submitting a property is straightforward. Property owners can complete a short online declaration form to register their interest.
“The information submitted will be compiled into a confidential database maintained by the Health Council and shared with relevant partners, such as the Ageing and Disability Services [ADS] team to inform future care home capacity planning, and Environmental Health to review the properties’ environmental fitness and alignment with the Code of Practice for Care Homes.
Property Eligibility
“Interested parties are encouraged to review Section 26 of the Code, which outlines minimum space requirements for residential care facilities, but suitable properties will typically have:
- “Multiple bedrooms with sufficient floor area [minimum approximately 120 sq ft of useable space for single occupancy; 180 sq ft for double occupancy], and
- “Communal living space and kitchen facilities
“Additionally, where necessary to align with the Code, interested property owners must be open to the following:
- “Allowing structure Modifications, including but not limited to door widening, to meet care facility standards, and/or
- “Exploring a change of use through the Department of Planning.
Submit Your Property
“Property owners interested in registering their property can complete the declaration form here: healthcouncil.bm/engage.
“For more information or questions about the initiative, contact the Health Council by email at carehomes@healthcouncil.bm or call us at 292-6420.”
