The NACC (National Association of Care Catering) welcomes the news that a new, strong, independent Chief Inspector of Social Care will be appointed to protect the elderly and other vulnerable people in care homes.
The Government confirmed the move as part of its official response to the Francis report, which looked into the failings at Mid Staffordshire Hospital.
The Chief Inspector of Social Care will ensure that the new regulatory model being applied to hospitals by a Chief Inspector of Hospitals is applied with the same rigour across the health and care system, putting in place a culture of zero-harm and compassionate care.
Under the umbrella of the Public Sector 1001, the NACC, united with partner organisations, including the HCA and LACA, has been lobbying Government for such an appointment.
Karen Oliver, national chair, NACC, said: "Food and mealtimes play a fundamental role in a social care environment. It is vital that the correct nutrition and hydration care is afforded to all service users, appropriate for their stage of life, to ensure the highest quality of care is maintained, and to prevent unnecessary and unacceptable malnutrition and dehydration.
"The appointment of the chief inspector of Social Care is a positive step forward in progressing and embedding good nutrition and hydration across social care settings, delivered with dignity and respect. There are outstanding examples of best practice and principles we need to share. There is no need to set up other groups and working parties when these are in place and ready to be used. We very much look forward to working with the new Chief Inspector for the benefit of the vulnerable in our society entrusting us with their care."