Measures announced to protect older people in care

New plans have been announced that aim to provide more protection for older people in all stages of the care system.

Minister for care services Ivan Lewis explained three new measures, including a £2 million joint project between the Department of Health and Comic Relief, to investigate the safety and dignity of those being looked after in institutional environments.

In addition, Mr Lewis said the plans would consider how to amend the current health and social care bill in order to make certain care homes directly subject to the guidance of the Human Rights Act.

He also said those paying for their own care arrangements need to have the right to contact an independent adjudicator with complaints.

“We are doing everything in our power to protect vulnerable older people from ill treatment,” the minister said. “The way we treat older people is one of the top priorities for the government.”

In addition to his role within the Department of Health, Mr Lewis is also the MP for Bury South.