Dominic Raab admits care homes had 'tough time' in pandemic

Deputy Prime minister Dominic Raab admitted care homes have had “a really tough time during the pandemic” while on a visit to meet staff and residents at Home of Compassion in Surrey.

The Conservative MP for Esher and Walton, spoke with residents, the home manager and care staff, who showed him the facilities and activities at the Thames Ditton-based home.

Mr Raab, who is also Secretary of State for Justice, said of his visit: “It was great to visit the Home of Compassion.

“Social care settings across Elmbridge have had a really tough time during the pandemic – so this was a good opportunity to personally thank all of the staff for the exceptional efforts they’ve made, and chat to some of the residents.

“Thank you to everyone at Home of Compassion for such a warm welcome.”

The minister's visit came a few months after the care home was awarded a Good rating in its latest Care Quality Commission inspection. Inspectors praised the “kind, thoughtful and respectful team of staff who know the residents well.”

Home of Compassion provides residential, nursing, palliative and dementia care for up to 78 residents.

Rose O’Mara, manager at the care home, run by Caring Homes, which operates 70 care homes, said: “Everyone at the Home of Compassion was very proud to welcome our MP to the home and show him our fantastic care and hospitality facilities.

"I want to say a big thank you to Mr Raab, on behalf of our residents and staff for making it such a special day. It was lovely for us all to have the chance to meet Mr. Raab and tell him about the events we run with the local community.

“He was very interested in the range of lifestyle activities that are on offer here at Home of Compassion.”

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