§ Mr. Jack ThompsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he has any plans to introduce new legislation to improve safety and care standards in private residential homes.
§ Mrs. CurrieThe Registered Homes Act 1984 gives my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State powers to make regulations governing the conduct and inspection of private and voluntary residential care homes registered with local social services authorities. We have used these powers to make the Residential Care Homes Regulations 1984 (S.I. 1345) which includes requirements for adequate arrangements for fire safety and for precautions against the risk of accidents. The regulations as amended by the Residential Care Homes (Amendment) Regulations 1988 also oblige authorities to inspect registered homes at least twice in every period of 12 months. In addition general guidance on the running of residential care homes is available in "Home Life", a code of practice for residential care, and in circulars issued by the Department. Further regulations or guidance will be issued as necessary.
These measures complement the health and safety at work legislation in its application to these homes.