Figures show fall in care home numbers

In March 2001 there were 700 fewer residential
care homes and 200 fewer nursing homes in England than a year
earlier, government figures published last week reveal.

A total of 4,700 residential home places – or
1 per cent – were lost over the 12 month period. More than a fifth
or these were in the South East.

The number of local authority-supported
residents fell for the first time since 1994 by 3,400 down to
261,800. However, only 16 per cent of these residents were actually
in local authority-run homes.

Health minister Jacqui Smith said that there
were particular “capacity problems” in the care home sector in some
parts of the country, but said the government’s investment
programme – an extra £900m annually by 2004 on intermediate
care – would help stabilise problems.

– Residential Personal Social Services for
Adults – England available from 020 7210 5231

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