THE urgent need of old people requiring the basic services of a care home far exceeds the desirability of bringing the homes up to government standards.

It should be obvious to the persons making decisions on this matter that by the time old people reach the stage of requiring this type of care, the foremost necessity is that they feel safe and secure and that help, if required, is available 24 hours a day.

This cannot be achieved by alternative proposals.

T HEATON, Brisbane Street, Clayton-le-Moors.