EVICTION OF ELDERLY PEOPLE FROM CARE HOMES

Early day motion 1565, tabled 9 July 2003 by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 40 members.

That this House regrets the tragic death of 102 year old Winifred Humphrey 16 days after eviction from her care home; notes that currently elderly people in care homes have less rights in law than private or council tenants and no security of tenure; is concerned that Winifred Humphrey's death is one of many deaths caused by the trauma of forced eviction from a care home; notes that inadequate fee levels and commercial pressures are forcing care home providers out of business putting people's lives at risk; and calls on the Government to strengthen the protection given to frail elderly people facing evictions from care homes to ensure they enjoy continuity of care and have sufficient time in which to select alternative accommodation.

Signatures by party: Labour 21, Liberal Democrat 16, Conservative 1, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, UUP 1.