The move to target poor providers follows the launch on 1 March of a centralised vetting and barring scheme, which will help force abusers out of the health and social care workforce and keep them out. It also builds on Byrne's decision to extend registration to all care home staff.

Care Services Minister Liam Byrne said: "Abusers of vulnerable adults should know that there is nowhere for them to hide in our social care workforce. Our older people have worked hard all their lives and deserve the very best care we can give them, in a safe environment.

"This change is going to free up inspectors to focus a laser-like light on care homes that are performing badly and force them to improve. This is what the public asked us to do in our consultation."

Byrne is also to investigate ways of making it easier for relatives of residents to trigger spot checks anonymously.

Care homes with a clear record of delivering excellent services will be freed from red tape to focus their attention on caring for their residents. However, the Commission for Social Care Inspection will increase unannounced spot checks to ensure standards are maintained. CSCI will also stay in regular contact with providers, who will be required by law to carry out an annual assessment proving they are maintaining high standards.