§ Mr. Sean Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what public or professional bodies exist to regulate the establishment of private nursing homes; and if he will make a statement on the safeguards which exist to ensure an adequate standard of service is provided by these homes.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeDistrict health authorities are responsible for the registration of private nursing homes within their boundaries, and for ensuring that adequate standards are maintained. Health authorities are required to enter and inspect registered homes at least twice a year to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Nursing Homes Act 1975, as amended, and associated regulations. We are introducing further amendments to the legislation, from 1 January 1985, which will give health authorities additional powers to seek out unregistered premises offering nursing care, and to take action quickly in cases where registered homes are failing to meet the standards required.