Govt set to make training compulsory for care staff

Training will be compulsory for all care home staff for the first time, under new government proposals.

The plans are expected to be announced within the next month and will outline minimum standards for new recruits.

Carers who assist older adults within their own homes will also be required to undergo the training if they help with task such as dressing or washing.

Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Liberal Democrat care minister Norman Lamb said it is unacceptable that "clear standards of the training that must happen in a care home" do not exist.

He added that a basic course covering the essential skills required to provide suitable care should be "fundamental".

Currently, people who provide home help services or work in care homes are subject to basic criminal records checks but there are no qualifications that are legally required for the roles.

Campaigners are calling for all staff to be trained in basic nutrition and hydration, operation of equipment such as hoists and lifts and the dispensing of medicines.

Find the nearest Barchester care home.