RCN comment on Alzheimer’s Society’s care home report

Published: 28 February 2013

Embargoed until: 00.01, 26 February, 2013

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) today commented on an Alzheimer’s Society report on dementia and care homes.

Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the RCN said: “It is disappointing that so many people have low expectations of care homes, and there is clearly a lot of work still to be done to ensure that every care home resident receives high quality care.

“Care home providers can create a positive environment by ensuring they provide the right number of staff with the right skills, and support them with thorough training and education.

“When such a high number of care home residents have dementia it is essential that staff have the time and support to provide the complex care which is required.”

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Notes for Editors

1. For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

2. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations