CARING for the frail and vulnerable is not something to be taken lightly. Relatives place their loved ones in others’ hands when they can no longer cope because they want the best for them. But last year some of York’s care homes were found to be wanting.

Among them were South Park, which looks after the elderly, and Lifestyle, which helps adults with learning difficulties or mental health needs. Both were rightly criticised by their watchdog in September, but have now been rightly praised for making major improvements.

As a result residents are clearly much happier. Indeed the latest report quotes one who says the carers are ‘smashing’.

The turnaround in fortunes shows the value of implementing better systems and we say well done to both homes on a job well done.