A Dorset company which operates two care homes has been placed into administration.

Tom Grummitt and Andrew Smith of insolvency firm Bridgewood have been appointed as Administrators of Hantona Ltd, which operates the Old Rectory in Swanage and Delph House in Poole.

Hantona announced in December that it was to cease trading due to financial difficulties. Since then it has been working with Dorset Council and BCP Council to support residents and their families and help them move to alternative accommodation.

Tom Grummitt from Bridgewood said that seven residents currently remained at the Old Rectory and 11 at Delph House, however the homes would remain open until all residents had been safely relocated.

He said: “This is a very difficult time for residents, their families and staff and we are doing all we can to minimise any disruption or distress.

“We are working closely with the local authorities and the Hantona management team to ensure that care can continue to be provided until all residents are relocated and that the quality of care can be maintained.

“We are also gathering information to ascertain the financial position of the business and, while Hantona had announced its plans to cease trading a number of weeks prior to our appointment, we will continue to explore all possible options.”

Bridgewood is part of the Dow Schofield Watts network.