15/10/2013

CQC Discuss Use Of Hidden Surveillance In Care Homes

The use of hidden surveillance equipment and "mystery shoppers" is being considered for care homes in England under plans announced by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The health and social care watching dog say they have held discussions on the use of hidden cameras to monitor services as part of a review of how the watchdog monitors care providers.

The CQC's new chief inspector of adult social care, Andrea Sutcliffe, published a document, A Fresh Start for the Regulation and Inspection of Adult Social Care, ahead of a public consultation next spring.

It states: "We would … like to have an open conversation with people about the use of mystery shoppers and hidden cameras, and whether they would contribute to promoting a culture of safety and quality, while respecting people's rights to privacy and dignity."

(MH/CD)

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