Overview

This bill aims to allow residents of care homes and sheltered accommodation in England and Wales to keep domestic pets, subject to certain conditions and appeals processes. The bill outlines the responsibilities of care home operators and the Secretary of State in managing this process.

Description

The Care Homes and Sheltered Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill mandates that care home and sheltered accommodation operators must permit residents to keep authorized pets. However, there are exceptions:

• Operators can refuse permission if the pet species isn't authorized by the Secretary of State.
• Operators can refuse if the pet poses a safety risk to other residents.
• Operators can refuse if the pet's welfare needs cannot be met.

The Secretary of State will determine which pet species are authorized, consulting interested parties beforehand. Residents can appeal refusals to the Care Quality Commission, who must decide within 28 days. During an appeal, the operator must provide for the animal's care and pay associated costs. The bill defines "domestic pet" and "care home" and outlines financial provisions for increased costs resulting from the bill.

Government Spending

The bill states that any increase in spending under other Acts due to this legislation will be covered by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided.

Groups Affected

• Care home and sheltered accommodation residents: Potentially benefit from increased companionship and improved well-being if allowed to keep pets.
• Care home and sheltered accommodation operators: Will have increased responsibilities regarding pet care and potentially additional costs, but may also benefit from increased resident satisfaction.
• The Secretary of State: Responsible for determining authorized pet species and consulting relevant parties.
• Care Quality Commission: Responsible for hearing appeals concerning pet ownership.
• Animal welfare organizations: May be consulted by the Secretary of State and play a role in ensuring animal welfare.

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