Analysis of responses to a Scottish government consultation has revealed ‘virtually unanimous support’ for a people living in adult care home to have the right to see friends and family.

Many of the 283 respondents said Anne’s Law should be written into law rather than rely on the discretion of a care home, after raising issues of inconsistent application of the current guidelines.

The consultation suggested legislative provisions on Anne's Law could be included in the National Care Service Bill, which underwent the public engagement process at the same time.

The development of Anne’s Law follows a Care Home Relatives Scotland petition to the Scottish parliament, which called on MSPs to urge the Scottish government to allow a designated visitor into care homes to support loved ones during lockdowns.

Quality of life for residents, protection of their human rights; and mental, emotional and physical health and wellbeing were raised by respondents as the main benefits of the policy.

Three quarters said the legislation should apply across more settings, with the right to visitors extended to include people staying in hospitals or children’s settings.

Scotland’s social care minister, Kevin Stewart said:

“While it was vital we took steps to protect people living in care homes, I also understand why many residents and those close to them feel there should be a right to visits from designated loved ones in future.

“We are about to update and strengthen the Health and Social Care Standards, with a strong emphasis on helping residents and their families remain connected.

“While Anne’s Law will be introduced to Parliament as soon as is practically possible, we are taking immediate action to ensure that care home residents and their families can benefit from its aims and principles right now.”  

More than 400 responses were received in total to the two-part consultation on Anne’s Law and strengthening the Health and Social Care standards.

A commitment to give nominated loved ones access to care homes, on parity with staff, was outlined in the Scottish government’s Programme for Government last September.

Five workshop events were held with 81 people living in adult care homes, staff and providers as part of the government’s engagement.

The short-length of the consultation at just five weeks and lack of publicity were raised as issues, though more than half of respondents were satisfied with the process.

 

Read more: Consultation underway on Anne’s Law; Covid: social care users “invisible” in routine data; Scots care home visiting rules lagged behind England

 

 

 

 

 

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