Some campaigners are concerned that calls for a new post-lockdown legal right that would ensure at least one relative or friend can always have contact with patients in hospitals or care settings could “normalise restrictive practices.”
A new law that would place a duty on health and care providers to allow a service user to be accompanied by a care supporter was discussed in Parliament on Tuesday.
However, despite gaining widespread support from groups, a campaign group is concerned the legislation could effectively give care providers the authority to limit and deny access.
Due to the visiting bans and restrictions imposed during COVID-19, advocates for family rights have been urging the implementation of new laws to safeguard the health, well-being, and family rights of individuals residing in care homes during any future public health emergencies….