The Government announced on 16 July 2020 that LPS would not be coming into force on 1 October 2020, but instead in April 2022. It has been clear for some time that 1 October was not just ambitious but impossible, so this clarification is very welcome. In a written statement, the Care Minister, Helen Whately, told Parliament that, whilst the intention had been to bring them into force on 1 October 2020:
It is now clear that successful implementation is not possible by this October. We now aim for full implementation of LPS by April 2022. Some provisions, covering new roles and training, will come into force ahead of that date. I will continue to update the sector and stakeholders on timings.
The Government will undertake a public consultation on the draft regulations and Code of Practice for LPS. That will run for 12 weeks, allowing sufficient time for those that are affected, including those with learning disabilities, to engage properly.
The sector will need time following the publication of the final Code to prepare for implementation. We will give the sector sufficient time to prepare for the new system to ensure successful implementation. I am considering a period of approximately six months for this.
