I'm being stopped from visiting
In England, since April 2024, care homes, hospitals and hospices registered with the CQC must support visiting. People can usually have someone with them at appointments too.
The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read.
Your rights
- Care home residents can receive at least one visitor, even during outbreaks, unless there's a specific, justified reason not to.
- Hospital and hospice patients should be supported to have someone with them.
- To be accompanied at outpatient and emergency appointments where it's in the person's best interests.
- Family life is protected, so restrictions must be proportionate.
What to do next
- Ask the manager for the reason in writing.
- Ask for a named 'essential care giver' arrangement if your visits matter to the person's wellbeing.
- If it isn't resolved, tell the CQC through its 'give feedback on care' form.
Say this
“Under Regulation 9A, please explain in writing why this visiting restriction is necessary and when it will be reviewed.”
The law behind it (England)
- Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014Reg.9A visiting and accompanying
- Human Rights Act 1998Article 8: family life
Elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland
- In Scotland, 'Anne's Law' changes protect care home visiting.
- Wales
- In Wales, follow Welsh Government visiting guidance. Raise concerns with Care Inspectorate Wales.
- Northern Ireland
- In Northern Ireland, raise concerns with the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA).
Easy Read
What you need to know
- In England, care homes and hospitals must let people visit.
- People in care homes can have at least 1 visitor, even when there is illness.
- You can usually have someone with you at appointments.
What you can do
- Ask the manager why. Ask them to write it down.
- If it is not sorted out, tell the CQC.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.