CARE HOME CRISIS (13/11/02)

Care homes in Somerset are being forced to close due to escalating costs and Government red-tape.Conservatives say the County Council refuses to accept the reality of the situation.

There is rapidly becoming a crisis where there are more patients than beds.Private patients are subsidising County Council responsibilities.There are not enough beds to go round.Those who cannot afford to pay for their own care are in danger of long waits.

Conservatives at County Hall guarantee that they would find the money to reverse this trend.

Speaking at the Executive meeting, Conservative Councillor, Colin Hill, stood alone in supporting the care homes in their plight for more resources.

He commented, ‘We have to find this money.There is no room for manoeuvre anymore.It is a core responsibility of this County Council.We are obliged to care for our frail and elderly.And we should take pride in doing so.

‘The Director of Social Services must be given more resources to negotiate with this crisis-torn industry.We cannot expect him to negotiate without resources.It is a question of priorities.Simply, we have no choice.We shouldn’t need to choose.’

Liberal Democrat, Jill Shortland expressed caution.She told the meeting, ‘We cannot guarantee the additional payments for January 2003, without knowing the Government settlement. Conservatives were challenged, at this meeting, to find the money. Colin Hill assured the care home industry they would.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Recommendations to the Executive Board:

1.Increase by £10 per week nursing home fees (from £370 to £380)

2.Increase by £5 per week very dependent care home fees (£273 to £278)