Internet ratings idea for care homes

All care providers would be rated in a searchable online database, set to work in a similar way to hotel reviews site TripAdvisor.

Records of mistreatment or abuse by staff will be included, along with the latest information from inspections as well as feedback from residents and their relatives.

The system is intended to expose failures to treat people with dignity and respect, such as abuse and theft.

Full details will be set out in a White Paper on social care, due to be published in the spring.

Under the proposals, relatives of care users will also be encouraged to join scrutiny teams, who will visit residents to speak about their experience of care.

Care services Minister Paul Burstow has asked officials to work out how to implement the plans, which emerged following a consultation with the public and charities.