Ministers have finally proposed new powers to stop families being unfairly denied visits to relatives in care homes and hospitals in England.
Since pandemic restrictions were eased relatives are still facing issues with visiting loved ones - an issue branded a "dangerous hangover from Covid".
Campaigners have long been calling for care home residents and hospital patients to have a legal right to visits by at least one relative or friend.
Earlier this month the Labour MP Dan Carden presented a motion in the Commons to rectify the problem and today the Government proposed news powers.
The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) said it recognised there have been cases "where visiting access is being unfairly denied".
The legislation will aim to strengthen rules around visiting, providing the Care Quality Commission (CQC) with a clearer basis for identifying where hospitals and care homes are not meeting the required standard.
A consultation on the new rules has also been launched, with Care Minister Helen Whately saying she is determined that no-one should face "unnecessary restrictions or even bans".
Mr Carden told The Mirror: "This is a big step in the right direction and I’m pleased Ministers have recognised that legislative change is needed and that it must apply to both health and social care settings.
"While this is not the legal right that we have been calling for, it is the creation of a new CQC fundamental standard and new CQC powers.
He added: "The upcoming consultation is an opportunity to define visiting as a fundamental part of care. Visiting must mean guaranteed access to at least one chosen care-giver.
"The outcome of all of this must be to ensure that we never again isolate the most vulnerable people from those who love them most."
Earlier this month campaigners called for Gloria's Law - named after the mother of West End supporter Ruthie Henshall - to be brought in.
It would ensure at least one relative or friend can always have contact with loved ones - a demand The Mirror has also supported.
Former I'm A Celeb star Ruthie has previously said she is "haunted" that her mother thought she'd been abandoned by her family.
In a statement Ms Whately said: "I know how important visiting is for someone in hospital or living in a care home, and for their families.
"I know from my own experience too - I know what it feels like to be told you can't see your Mum in hospital. That's why I'm so determined to make sure we change the law on visiting."
She added: "Many care homes and hospitals have made huge progress on visiting and recognising carers since the pandemic. But I don't want anyone to have to worry about visiting any more, or to face unnecessary restrictions or even bans.
"I have listened to campaigners who have been so courageous in telling their stories.
" I encourage everyone who cares about visiting to take this opportunity to have your say on our plans to legislate for visiting.”
