Written question asked by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 12 October 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 14 October 2005. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Monday, 24 October 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Care Homes (Diet)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what level of expertise and training is required of Commission for Social Care Inspection inspectors on the management of nutrition and dietary care for older people in care homes.

Answer: I understand from the chief executive of the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI), that CSCI has developed guidance for inspectors in consultation with dietary experts, on the management of nutrition and dietary care for older people in care homes.As part of the continuous professional development for all inspectors, CSCI has established a learning resource centre, which gives inspectors access to a wide range of clinical and professional information. In addition, on a monthly basis specific care issues like the management of nutritional and dietary requirements are focused on, with electronic links provided to websites and articles providing updates on good practice.Inspectors will prompt the provider of a care home to seek input for people in their care from local national health service dieticians, if nutritional issues are identified during an inspection.The Chief of Nursing at CSCI has ongoing meeting with the nutritional advisory group for the elderly to discus a range of issues around nutrition.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 18939; 438 c167W;438 c167W
Session: 2005-06
Related items: Nutrition
Monday, 21 November 2005
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Care homes Older people Nutrition