Two recent tragic cases have highlighted the importance of taking the utmost care when considering a care home for a loved one
It is a decision that takes a lot of thought to ensure that the individual is going to be cared for in a safe environment, that they are going to be happy in their new home and have a good quality of life.
Unfortunately, not all homes ensure that all their residents are looked after, and some can suffer neglect or abuse. A study by Which? in 2018, found that half of England’s care homes are not meeting the required standards.
Common examples of negligence are;
- Safeguarding issues
- Injuries/death from falls or handling errors
- Misdiagnosis
- Medication administration errors
- Abuse from staff
- Failure to provide food/water/personal care
- Pressure ulcers/sores
Recently, the Specialist Clinical Negligence Team at Wollens Solicitors have been instructed by a gentleman whose Mother sadly passed away following a fall down a flight of stairs at her care home. She suffered with Dementia, hallucinations and was classed as high risk to falls.
No pressure mat alarms or stair gates were allegedly put in place to prevent her wandering out of her room and falling down the stairs.
This lady suffered multiple fractures to her face, skull and spine. She sadly passed away one week later.
Our Specialist Team have also been made aware of a care home that has been closed down by inspectors following the unexplained death of an elderly resident, that the Police are now investigating.
The care home has been described as “dirty and smelly”.
The Care Quality Commission has reported the overall service of this care home as inadequate.
At Wollens Solicitors, our specialist expert Clinical Negligence Team, deal with Residential Care/Nursing Home Negligence Claims and if you or someone you know has suffered such negligence, you can contact either Amanda Harvey, Elizabeth Larner or Zoe Gask, for a free initial consultation, on 01803 225 194/135, or you can email [email protected] or alternatively you can go to https://wollenmichelmore.co.uk/services/clinical-negligence/nursing-home-negligence/ and complete our online enquiry form and one of our team will contact you as soon as they are available.
