§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will list the representations he has received from organisations seeking the introduction of legislation to improve standards of surveillance at private rest homes for the elderly.
§ Mr. John PattenI assume the hon. Member is referring to the consultation in 1982 on the improvements proposed to the registration and inspection system for residential homes for the elderly, disabled and mentally disordered. Comments were received from about 300 organisations and individuals and these were taken into account in legislation incorporated in part IV of the Health and Social Services and Social Security Adjudications Act 1983
When that new legislation is implemented later this year, registration authorities will be required to inspect registered homes at least once a year. In addition, arrangements were made for a code of practice to be drawn up for this type of home by a working party promoted by the Centre for Policy on Ageing. The working party published its code, entitled "Home Life", last month and this will be commended to authorities when guidance is issued on the new legislation.