Lincolnshire Care Association Responds To Prime Ministers Care Home Comments

As the fallout over the Prime Minister’s comments regarding care homes in which he said: “too many care homes didn’t really follow the procedures”, the Lincolnshire Care Association has issued a response.

Melanie Weatherley MBE, Chair of the Lincolnshire Care Association, says: “We’d like to say a few words in response to Boris Johnson’s unacceptable remarks that too many care homes didn’t follow procedures during COVID-19, as well as Simon Stevens’ comments over the weekend regarding the resilience of the social care system.

“These comments, although not unexpected, suggests the blame lies with care homes,

when the sector is filled with hardworking, resourceful individuals who dedicate their lives to caring for others.The situation has been challenging, but care homes were not just sitting on their hands while the government was deciding its next steps. Like every sector, we have had to learn about this evolving situation as we go along, but providers used their expertise and anticipated what needed to be done long before the government guidelines were released. In fact, care organisations were a crucial influence on the policies that have saved lives, from PPE to choosing to suspend visits.”

“Most importantly, don’t let these careless words dissuade you, a friend or relative from choosing to make a care home your home. They provide security, companionship and so much more, and for vulnerable people in need of support there is no safer place to be.”

“A few weeks ago, the government was clapping for the care sector – don’t let them make us the target of their mistakes. The battle against COVID-19 isn’t over yet, but we’re still here fighting the good fight for the vulnerable people that need us.”