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SNP government ‘neglecting care homes watchdog’

SCOTTISH Labour has accused the government of failing to  support care regulators despite ongoing issues facing homes throughout the coronavirus pandemic. 

Health spokesperson Monica Lennon said yesterday that the watchdog responsible for safety in Scotland’s care homes has been neglected by ministers as more than 2,000 care home residents died from Covid-19. 

The Scottish government revealed last week that Health Secretary Jeane Freeman had only met the Care Inspectorate once before June 8, despite a crisis crippling social care in Scotland.

Ms Lennon said a lack of support from the Scottish government had left the care regulator in an “unfit state of neglect” by the time coronavirus hit.

The MSP added: “Ensuring the safety of care home residents must be paramount. The virus has killed thousands of people in care homes, however, the Care Inspectorate has been posted missing when it should have been more active than ever.”

Care homes have been at the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in Scotland, with care home residents accounting for more than 50 per cent of all deaths. 

Scottish Labour announced in June it is developing plans for a national care service to transform the provision of care services in Scotland and is consulting with trade unions, local government, third sector organisations, as well as service users and their families.

Ms Lennon added: “Scottish Labour’s vision for a national care service will drive up standards across the country and give social care the attention and support it deserves.”

Ms Freeman told the Star that ministers have had regular contact with the Care Inspectorate, adding: “The safety, protection and wellbeing of residents and staff in our care home sector has always been a top priority.”

She said the government has equipped the Care Inspectorate to carry out an enhanced assurance role during the pandemic.

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