Care Home Staffing

Debate between Lord Markham and Lord Swire

Thursday 18th January 2024 Lords Chamber

[Lord Swire (Con)]

Does my noble friend the Minister not agree with me that there is still massive potential with the 500 or so community hospitals we have in the United Kingdom? Many are extremely well supported by their local community, and many still retain beds.

[Lord Markham (Con)]

Yes. I have seen a number of really good examples of the kind of step-down care that my noble friend is talking about, or intermediate care that can be used as interim measures. We are trying to bring more of them on board, as well as the very good virtual wards. We have set up 11,000 virtual wards, and they are making a difference as well.