§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps his Department takes to seek to ensure that private nursing homes are properly inspected and are providing an adequate service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitneyTo ensure that standards are maintained, private nursing homes must be registered by district health authorities, and inspected by them at least twice a year. The statutory requirements are set out in the Registered Homes Act 1984 and the Nursing Homes and Mental Nursing Homes Regulations 1984. In addition, the Department has issued guidance to health authorities and commended a handbook produced by the National Association of Health Authorities.