RCN responds to CQC reports into dignity and nutrition

Published: 19 March 2013

The Royal College of Nursing has expressed concern about the findings of the latest Care Quality Commission (CQC) reports into dignity and nutrition in care homes and hospitals.

Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said: “These are comprehensive reports, which show the improvements some care providers have made, and the dedication of many staff.

“However, two thirds of care homes meeting all five standards is not enough. If your relative is in the third that do not meet all those standards, you will know that they are not optional extras.

“We all want our relatives to have dignified care, nutrition, adequate staff to look after them, good record keeping and proper safeguarding procedures, and these should now be the norm.”

Dr Carter highlighted a particular concern of one failing leading to another, with about half of the homes not meeting nutritional needs also being beset by staffing problems.

Dr Carter added: “We are also saddened to learn that the number of inspected hospitals meeting the standards for privacy and dignity has fallen since 2011.”

Again, only two thirds were meeting every standard.