Anne’s Law, which enshrines the right of care home residents to contact with family and friends, has been passed unanimously by the Scottish parliament.
The Scottish parliament has unanimously approved measures enshrining the right of care home residents to contact with family and friends.
Anne’s Law was developed following the COVID-19 pandemic, when restrictions on care home visits had a significant impact on residents’ health and wellbeing, but will also apply in circumstances such as flu outbreaks.
The regulations establish that homes must allow and support visiting unless suspension is essential to prevent serious risk to life, health or wellbeing. Even then, care homes are still required to facilitate visits for those nearing the end of life or where the harm caused by suspension outweighs other risks.
“This legislation recognises the profound importance of relationships, autonomy and emotional wellbeing in care, and we look forward to working with partners to ensure its implementation strengthens the lives of those who live and work in Scotland’s care homes,” said Scottish Care chief executive Donald Macaskill.
Social connections
The foundations of Anne’s Law were developed through updated guidance and strengthened health and social care standards. It was put on a statutory footing as part of the Care Reform (Scotland) Act 2025, and these are supporting regulations.
The Care Home Services (Visits to and by Care Home Residents) (Scotland) Regulations 2026 were approved on 4 March and will come into force on 31 March.
“Meaningful activity and social connections are important for the well-being and quality of life of people living in adult care homes. For many residents, family members or friends build on the support provided by care home staff,” said social care minister Tom Arthur.
“In developing the legislation, I am pleased that we were able to work closely with Natasha Hamilton, whose petition first highlighted the issue during the pandemic,” he added.
Hamilton launched a Scottish parliament petition at the height of the public health emergency to enter a care home and continue to support her mother. Ministers worked with Hamilton and Care Home Relatives Scotland to develop the details of the legislation, including drafting a supporting code of practice.
