As Christmas fast approaches those living in care homes continue to be treated like prisoners.

How is this happening in the UK today? Those living in care should be afforded the same human right to a family life as every other member of our society. Vulnerable people living in the community have been told that they won’t be required to shield this time round due to the huge impact this had on their mental health. We expect the same consideration to be given to our loved ones.= as there should be equality for all.

The huge petition numbers reflect growing public outrage at the way in which vulnerable people continue to be locked away and is helping to generate lots of media coverage. The Government are feeling the heat of publicity and from MPs and when we reach 170,000 signatures Rights for Residents will deliver the petition to Downing Street

Every day we receive news that more vulnerable people have passed away in isolation - without the comfort of their loved ones at their side. It's a national scandal. Thousands of families are left scarred with a legacy of guilt that really belongs to the Government.

Last week Inspection Control Experts signed an open letter in the Nursing Times stating that “it is almost impossible to underestimate the harm and mental anguish that barring entry to nursing, care and residential homes has caused to thousands of residents, their families and significant others. Such action supports the dangerous narrative that elderly and vulnerable people matter less”

We are calling on the Government to show some compassion and find a way to urgently reunite families, as many are simply giving up the will to live.

Visit our Rights for Residents Website to find out more about our campaign