RCN response to review into Ofsted style ratings for NHS and care homes

Published: 28 November 2012

Commenting on the announcement of a review into Ofsted style ratings for the NHS and social care, Royal College of Nursing Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter, said:

"We know that Ofsted is a credible ratings system, which is respected by parents and users of the system. The RCN would support the introduction of a more comprehensive and robust system that can reflect the quality of services and the patient experience.
 
"We would like to see a more nuanced system than simply the 'friends and family' test that takes account of a wider range of factors and we look forward to seeing more details of this proposal.

"We know that as finances are squeezed, the quality of patient care is increasingly under threat. Increased transparency and more information for patients will help to ensure financial considerations do not override patient care. Equally, we know that there is no substitute for having the right number of staff with the right skills in hospitals and care homes."

Notes for Editors

1. For further information, please contact the RCN Media Office on 020 7647 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 organizations.