To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any engagement he is planning with care home workers in relation to Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021 and the issues raised by the campaign, including public awareness; and (ii) any previous engagement he has had with care home staff in relation to this campaign.

Although I have not received any correspondence in relation to the ‘Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021,’ I have stated on many occasions that I fully recognise and appreciate the hard work and dedication of staff working across the statutory and independent care sectors and the significant strain they have worked under over this very challenging period.

Since taking office I have visited a number of care homes and have had the privilege of meeting staff working in those care homes. In addition my officials and I continue to engage with representatives of Independent Care Providers, Unions and Older People’s Groups to ensure that issues can be addressed and the best quality of care achieved.

I would therefore be happy to support ‘Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021.’