+FOLLOWING the comments of Heather Lomas, of Hollymount Nursing House, regarding elderly people being guided toward council-run residential homes (Letters, November 27), perhaps readers would appreciate knowing their rights when choosing residential care, whether for permanent admission or for respite care.

If the prospective resident has in excess of £18,500 in savings (including property), then Social Services do not have to be involved.

You have the right to enter any nursing/residential home you wish, whether it be privately or council run.

If the prospective resident has less than £18,500 and Social Services has granted funding, it is still their citizen right to choose whichever home they wish to enter. They do not have to be admitted to a council-run residence, as long as the private home's fee structure is in line with council figures, as most are.

ALISTAIR BARRETT, Magdalene House, Nursing and Residential Home, Shear Bank Road, Blackburn.