CQC investigates Panorama care home negligence at Whorlton Hall

Care home negligence

Back in May 2019, the Panorama programme broke the news of care home abuse at the learning disabilities unit at Whorlton Hall, County Durham, run by private firm Cygnet Health Care. The CQC followed this up with their own investigation.

CQC inspectors have found that restraint of patients was more likely, and there were higher rates of self-harm reported.

In addition, the regulator found the following:

• there were no clear lines of accountability between the executive team and its services
• required checks had not been completed to ensure directors and board members met the ‘fit and proper’ person test
• risk management systems were criticised
• intermediate life support training was not provided to all relevant staff

Not all comments were negative however. The inspectors noted that the senior leadership team was responsive to the concerns raised by the CQC with most of the services run by Cygnet rated as good.

Cygnet responded to the report by saying it was “not complacent” and would “take on board” the recommendations.

The unit within Whorlton Hall that was the subject of the Panorama investigation has been closed.

Care home claims and compensation

It can be shocking to find your loved one is the victim of care home negligence, and thankfully it is a rare occurrence. However, if you were to find yourself in that position, it is imperative that the situation is resolved quickly, and if a care home claim were to be considered, that proof has been gathered.

Blackwater Law have medical negligence solicitors who act on a no win no fee basis and can offer their extensive knowledge on care home compensation, from giving free initial advice, to helping you make your own claim.