The equalities watchdog has warned a Supreme Court decision, made today in favour of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, will make it easier for councils to justify removing care, imperilling older people's human rights and dignity.

Upholding a High Court ruling, the court dismissed the appeal of Elaine McDonald, who challenged whether the council acted unlawfully in amending her care package by substituting her nighttime carer with a supply of incontinence pads and sheeting.