Yeovil MP David Laws is to take a closer look at the care home sector in South Somerset.
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Repairs to A396 Cutcombe Hill moved to nighttime work to avoid Snowdrop Valley clashHe says that 35,000 care beds have been lost in England over the last three years when a large number of care homes have closed.
Mr Laws believes that something isn't right and says that many homes are struggling to pay attractive enough wages in order to fill staff vacancies.
As a result, the Yeovil MP has launched his own inquiry and is addressing every care home in south Somerset with a number of questions. The aim is to get a clear picture of the situation by asking questions relating to staff shortages, the impact of new national standards, rates and fees, etc.
"A number of care homes recently closed in our area, so I am asking the managers themselves what problems they face and what assistance they need.
"The government has been slow to recognise the destructive impact care home closures have had - not least in blocking hospital beds. Older people deserve a choice of care home and they have a right to know that the care home they choose is not operating on a shoestring budget," Mr Laws commented.