Care Homes have been much in the news over the past few months, whether it be the Government`s U-turn on the proposed rate of personal contributions, fears over staffing levels after Brexit, or the steep rise in bankruptcies across the care home sector.
A court case last June, involving residents with learning disabilities at two care homes in Devon, resulting in jail sentences for 13 members of staff, have highlighted the need for greater supervision by local authorities.
In February ITV reported that in the past three years more than 20,000 allegations of abuse had been made against care home workers. Of these allegations, 12000 were of neglect, 3000 were of physical abuse, 2400 were of psychological abuse, and 400 were of sexual abuse. The vast majority of claims concerned elderly people still living in their own homes. The investigation also revealed that an alarming number of people had been left for days without proper medication or help with personal hygiene. Of the 372 official complaints to the Local Government Ombudsman in 2016 concerning home care 65% were upheld.
For those of us with elderly or infirm relatives it is becoming ever more important to thoroughly check out prospective care providers, whether they offer residential care or care in the home. And these investigations must carry on throughout the period of care to allow for changes in ownership and staff turnover.
If you have any concerns regarding the care offered to a relative or friend contact 01727 869293 for help and advice.
