Elder abuse puts Britain to shame
■ THE report into abuse against elderly people in care homes is long overdue (Mirror, Nov 27), but until those responsible are dealt with properly, I fear abuse will continue.
Unfortunately, the offenders are too often just given a slapped wrist and, in some cases, get sacked but go on to work in another home.
A complete overhaul of our care system is needed, including a review of pay and training structures, for the thousands of thoughtful carers who go into care work as a vocation.
Until this happens, our frail and elderly will continue to suffer at the hands of a sadistic minority.
Neil Atherton
St Helens, Merseyside
■ While the cruelty suffered by some elderly people at the hands of a minority of carers is abhorrent, let us not forget the majority of carers in this country do a fantastic job. They are paid a fraction of a nurse’s pay and care for dementia patients and others with debilitating illnesses, attending to all their needs and administering medication. They should be paid a salary that reflects the tough work they do.
Steve Eady
Wigan, Gtr Manchester
■ It is a disgrace how little carers are paid, but that also applies to the people who care at home for loved ones. I cared for both my parents through terminal illnesses, and gave up work to do it. Then I helped care for my father and mother-in-law. Now I care for my husband who has dementia and all for just over £60 per week. Yes, it’s done out of love but that love and caring is used by the Government to save cash. And where does all the money go that people pay to nursing homes? It’s not on staff wages, that’s for sure. Mary Pester, Saltash, Cornwall
■ A relative of mine has spent six months in hospital due to a lack of residential care provision. This is a serious crisis for the individual and the NHS.
I applaud the Mirror’s campaign to have fair care for all. Local authorities are being starved of cash, staff are not valued or supported in this difficult job and all parties need a new way of working that’s fit for the 21st century.
Name supplied, Manchester
■
How could nursing staff not realise patient Patricia Heslop was suffering with a fractured hip for almost a week (Mirror, Nov 27)?
Care homes should be subject to unannounced spot checks, and where possible, visiting relatives should be vigilant and if they are not happy should formally complain.
It must be a thankless task looking after the elderly, but it’s what those in the care sector signed up for. Brian Davies
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
■ Until we have a properly funded and integrated care system, our frail loved ones will continue to be at risk. That is why we all need to back your Fair Care for All Campaign.
Janine Wells, Plymouth
■ Anyone who has had to care for an elderly loved one can’t help but be aware of the scale of the elderly care crisis. But this Tory Government doesn’t care because they can afford round-the-clock care for their old and sick relatives.
D O’Brien, Carlisle