WE HAVE 36 residential care homes in Essex, providing 1,402 beds in the county.

To enable us to do this, £13m has been spent on refurbishment to meet registration standards. Staffing levels mostly meet the requirements of registration and inspection.

Reports I have received argue strongly for the retention of public sector provision, based on professional advice and consumer expectations. They also look at the possible implications of the application of the minimum wage.

The case has been made for the retention of some local authority residential provision, both to meet the full range of assessed residential needs and to provide specialist care for older people with mental health problems.

The public sector should exist alongside the independent sector in order to satisfy demand and meet choice requirements.

A strong case exists for retaining a footing in the market place in order to contribute to the debate about best standards, service culture, and costs.

I hope that in line with the Labour Group amendment of consultation with each home in the locality, there will be a full debate with local communities effected before any changeover of provision of care.

ROY SMITH,

Labour Group Spokesperson for Essex Social Services.

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