Government Launches Review of Care Home Visiting Rights Regulation
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has launched a comprehensive review of Regulation 9A—landmark legislation introduced in April 2024 to protect and promote the rights of care home residents and patients in hospitals and hospices to receive visits and be accompanied to appointments.
As part of the review, DHSC has issued a national call for evidence, inviting care home residents, their families, friends, advocates, care providers, and sector professionals to share their experiences of visiting and accompaniment since the regulation came into force.
A Year On—Have Visiting Rights Improved?
Regulation 9A was introduced under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 following extensive consultation. It enshrines in law the right for people in care homes, hospitals, and hospices to maintain meaningful contact with loved ones. This includes being visited at their place of care and being accompanied to outpatient appointments—unless there is a significant risk to the health or safety of others.
The government’s call for evidence aims to assess how effective the regulation has been in ensuring that:
• People in care homes, hospitals, and hospices can receive visitors of their choosing
• Care home residents are not discouraged from visiting others or going out
• Patients attending hospital or hospice appointments without overnight stays can be accompanied by a loved one or advocate
The review process will draw on survey responses, focus groups, and data from oversight bodies including the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, and the Parliamentary and Health Services Ombudsman.
Seeking Voices from the Sector
Care home operators and staff are encouraged to participate in the review on behalf of those they support. The survey explores experiences of visiting and accompanying both before and after Regulation 9A came into effect, how effectively the regulation has been implemented, and any challenges or concerns that have arisen.
While the survey is not intended as a formal complaints mechanism, responses may be shared with regulators for monitoring and oversight. Individual complaints should continue to be raised through providers, local authorities, or ombudsman services, as appropriate.
Using Technology for Better Insight
To support the analysis of responses, DHSC will be using artificial intelligence (AI) tools under strict human oversight to summarise findings. However, the final review report will be drafted entirely by human analysts.
Maintaining Connection and Wellbeing
Regulation 9A was established in recognition of the vital role that contact with loved ones plays in the health and wellbeing of people receiving care. Its introduction followed heightened concerns about isolation and restricted access during the COVID-19 pandemic.
DHSC states that ensuring individuals can maintain relationships and support networks must remain a priority across all health and social care settings.
How to Take Part
The call for evidence is now open, and all responses are anonymised. To share your views or find out more, email: visiting@dhsc.gov.uk.
