CQC chief urges British public to take part in National Care Home Open Day

The chief inspector of adult social care for the Care Quality Commission is urging the British public to gain a better understanding of care homes, by visiting their local care home on National Care Home Open Day.

The nationwide event which aims to break down barriers and improve the public image of care homes is on Friday 20 June.

Over 100 inspectors and staff from the CQC have signed up to join in the celebration of this year’s open day.

From cream teas and musical entertainment – to summer BBQs and sporting pursuits – many care homes are offering a wide range of diverse activities.

CQC's chief inspector of adult social care, Andrea Sutcliffe, said: “Whether members of the public are looking at care options for a family member or just want to make a connection with the community – the open day is a great opportunity to visit your local care home.

“People can see what goes on, get involved and gain a better understanding of these really important services.

“From 30 minutes, to a couple of hours – or even a whole afternoon – I really would like to encourage everyone to take some time out and join in the celebrations.”

She added: “I am delighted that so many inspectors and staff at CQC have already signed up to take part. Adult social care is the biggest service we regulate and it's great we can be a part of celebrating the good care we see so often.

“I hope National Care Home Open Day will help to break down barriers between care homes and the community and forge lasting links for the future which will benefit everyone.”

For more information, check out the regularly updated National Care Home Open Day map at www.cqc.org.uk/NCHOD2014 to see which care homes CQC inspectors and staff will be attending on Friday 20 June.

People can also follow and support National Care Home Day on Twitter by using the hashtag #NCHOD2014