The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is conducting a vital review Regulation 9A of The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014—the law that protects people’s rights to be visited and accompanied in care homes, hospitals, and hospices in England.
Regulation 9A came into force on 6 April 2024 and ensures that people receiving care can be supported by family, friends, or advocates during visits or outpatient appointments. Now, one year on, DHSC wants to hear directly from those who matter most—you, the care providers who make these rights a reality every day.
This call for evidence is your chance to share your experiences, challenges, and successes since Regulation 9A was introduced. Your input will help shape how this regulation works in the future—for the people you care for and for the care services you provide.
Why your voice matters
The call for evidence includes questions on:
- Visiting and accompanying practices before and after Regulation 9A
- Whether Regulation 9A has been effective in protecting the rights of people using care services
- Any concerns or barriers raised
- The regulation’s impact on both the people you support and providers
Whether you’re responding as an individual provider or on behalf of your organisation, your insights are critical. Every response is anonymised, and no personal data is collected. Please do not include information in your responses that could identify an individual or member of the public.
Take part now
Click the link below to access the survey and make your voice heard:
The survey closes Wednesday 9th July so don’t miss the opportunity to help improve care experiences across the country.