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Dear Helen Whately MP

Thank you for your recent response regarding the use of independent safety monitoring technology in care homes, a matter of profound concern for our safety in care organisation, Care Campaign for the Vulnerable.

While we appreciate the clarification on the responsibilities of care providers and the regulatory guidelines from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), I must express our disappointment in what appears to be a somewhat generalised response to a deeply nuanced issue affecting the most vulnerable members of our society.

We acknowledge the complexity and varied opinions surrounding the use of surveillance in care environments. However, the increasing incidents of neglect and abuse in care settings, particularly those serving individuals with dementia, underscore the urgent need for enhanced oversight and accountability mechanisms. Our organisation is actively working with care providers to implement independent safety monitoring solutions, including the thoughtful use of care monitoring technology, in a manner that priorities the dignity, privacy, and human rights of residents. These initiatives are undertaken in close consultation with residents, their families, and care staff to ensure transparency, trust, and adherence to legal and ethical standards. Moreover, we advocate for an independent monitoring framework that complements the regulatory oversight provided by the CQC, aiming to instill greater confidence among all stakeholders in the quality and safety of care.

We seek the support of the government, not only in endorsing the use of surveillance as a tool for safeguarding residents but also in facilitating the provision of necessary resources and guidance to care providers. This includes support for the adoption of best practices in technology use, ensuring accessibility to legal and ethical advice, and promoting a culture of care and responsibility that respects the autonomy and rights of individuals. While the autonomy of care providers is crucial, the role of the government in setting a clear, supportive framework for the use of surveillance technology cannot be overstated. This is especially true for care settings housing individuals with dementia, where the potential for harm is elevated and the capacity for self-advocacy is often diminished.In conclusion, while we respect the points made in your response, we urge a reconsideration of the government's stance towards a more proactive, supportive role in facilitating the safe, ethical use of surveillance technology in care homes. The ultimate goal should be to enhance the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable among us, ensuring they live in environments where dignity, respect, and high-quality care are uncompromised.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. We remain eager to collaborate with the government, the CQC, care providers, and our supporters to advance the safety and well-being of care home residents.

Care Campaign for the Vulnerable

Care Campaign for the Vulnerable (CCFTV) extends its sincere gratitude to Joy Morrissey MP for her invaluable assistance in forwarding our concerns and advocacy efforts regarding independent safety monitoring in dementia care homes to the Department of Health and Social Care. This gesture significantly aids in highlighting the critical role of CCFTV in advocating for improved safety measures within these care settings. In response to this supportive action, CCFTV has decided to proceed with a formal Open Letter to Helen Whately MP, reiterating our stance and expressing our ongoing appreciation for Joy Morrissey MP's steadfast support of our cause. Her commitment plays a pivotal role in advancing our objectives and ensuring the welfare of those in dementia care homes remains a priority within the broader health and social care agenda.