Social services association calls for tougher checks on illegal care homes

The Association of Social Services Providers (APSS) is calling for stricter checks to identify illegal homes for elderly and disabled people.

It proposes a guide to help people recognise unauthorised facilities and a register where care providers could be checked. Rather than closing illegal facilities immediately, the association suggests placing them under temporary compulsory administration so their clients do not suddenly lose access to care.

The APSS says some unlicensed facilities fail to meet required standards, lack sufficient staff or fail to guarantee clients' rights.

The Labour Ministry plans to introduce a new Social Services Act with revised rules, but does not expect to submit it for another two years.