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DISABILITY Network Director John Williams has warned that change is needed to bring the borough's care homes up to the expected standard - and the watchdog organisation needs sharper teeth.

He said: "Many of the homes are reactive, only improving when nudged or warned. I applaud many for their efforts at transparency and their standard of care but others seem to be quick at picking up the profits but slow in preserving the dignity of our most vulnerable."

Mr Williams believes that the Social Care Inspectorate's findings show that a radical rethink is needed in the way the homes are inspected.

He said: "CSCI has been a great disappointment.

They have become an institutionalised toothless tiger who are now inspecting less when there has never been a greater need to inspect more and have greater power.

"I believe there should be a system of lay inspectors, not answerable to the government who can go in with far more exacting standards and far-reaching power."

CSCI spokesperson Ray Veasey said: "The bottom line is that we do have the power to close a care home and have done so in the past.

"Our system is rigorous and supportive. There are many homes that are given "outstanding" reports as well as those that need to improve."

Thurrock councillor Amanda Arnold, who carried portfolio responsibility for adult care, believes that society has to bear some of the responsibility for the state of care homes.

She said: "All jobs which involve an element of vocation seem to be struggling to fill their vacancies.

"As long as we have a self-absorbed society where the seventh rate pop star is adored and the hard working nurse derided then we will struggle to provide the proper caring culture for the most vulnerable."

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