LONG-TERM care will be forced to meet minimum standards set by a charter launched by City of York Council.

The document targets anybody needing support, along with carers and helpers.

It sets standards in six key areas of care, including helping users find out about services and understanding their needs.

It explains what help users can expect in finding a suitable place to live, staying independent, getting the right health care and supporting carers.

Bob Towner, the council's director of community services, said: "This is an important charter for those relying on long term care services in the city.

"The charter reflects the council's commitment to consulting with residents and keeping them informed."

York MP and Social Security Minister Hugh Bayley helped the council launch the charter, called Better Care, Higher Standards, and said it reflected the Government's commitment to bridging the gap of care between different health and social service providers.

The charter also includes information about:

Local services which are available and how to get them

Standards people can expect when they receive services, information and advice

How to get information on social security benefits

How to complain if things go wrong

Local helpline numbers and contacts.

North Yorkshire Health Authority's planning manager John Hancock said: "Performance against the standards set out in the charter will be monitored on a regular basis and the results made public in an annual report."

PICTURE-York MP and Social Security minister Hugh Bayley, right, launches the Better Care, Higher Standards charter, with Richard Hails, of the York Multiple Sclerosis Society

Picture: Steven Bradshaw