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4.6 Deputy R.G. Le Hérissier of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding the regulation of care workers in care and residential homes:
When will the Minister be introducing robust regulation of care workers in care and residential homes?
Senator B.E. Shenton (The Minister for Health and Social Services):
I can advise the Deputy that the robust regulation of care workers in care and residential homes will
be introduced at the earliest possible time. It is very clear that the current regulatory framework for
such workers has over time become deficient as standards have increased and the need for vigilance has similarly increased. The States of Jersey has made available law drafting time in 2009 so that a new law - currently described as a Regulation of Care Law - can be introduced. This will increase the level of quality and control and vigilance and indeed training and qualifications which are required if the care of patients and clients is to be protected and seen to be protected. The Regulation of Care Law will be informed by best practice from the mainland and by the outcome of the consultation process which was completed a few weeks ago. Being mindful such a law must now be some 18 months away from implementation I am currently exploring how police record checks can be undertaken on all care home staff within the existing framework by the exercising of my decision-making powers as Minister and potentially through minor amendments to the current law. My staff are currently discussing the interpretation of the present law with the States of Jersey Police to see what is possible in this regard.
4.6.1 Deputy R.G. Le Hérissier:
I forgot to declare an interest in being on the board of such a home. On that matter, Sir, would the Minister inform us what is the procedure when one is dealing, for example, with a suitably qualified person but they are released by a home and the matter upon which they are released is one of sufficient concern that the U.K. professional body should be informed. Is there a procedure to do that at the moment?
Senator B.E. Shenton:
To be honest with the Deputy I am unaware. I will find out for him.