FOLLOWING the front page story (Ledbury Reporter, October 1) regarding Here-fordshire Council care homes, I write to ensure your readers have an accurate understanding of the relationship between Shaw Healthcare and Herefordshire Council.

Shaw Healthcare are managing the council's care homes under a partnership agreement. The homes are still owned by the council, which will continue to ensure high standards of service through regular contact with Shaw.

As your article rightly reported, the partnership will bring significant investment into the homes.

Facilities at Leadon Bank will be improved so older people can benefit from short stays to get back on their feet and by providing apartments with extra support. Residents will be involved in how the necessary building work is managed to ensure disruption is minimised.

The council is clear this is a partnership and it continues to be very much involved in the development of the homes.

STEPHANIE CANHAM, head of social care (adults), Herefordshire Council.