Medical Law Expert Calls For Review

A lawyer at Irwin Mitchell with expertise in cases of abuse and neglect has called for a full review of standards in care homes to be undertaken, after a new report raised significant concerns over whether many sites are meeting the needs of residents.

According to research by the Royal College of Nursing, more than a quarter of care home nurses believe they do not have adequate equipment or supplies, while 40 per cent suggested they do not have enough full-time staff to provide suitable care.

Concerns were also raised that some residents were still being accepted to fill places in homes despite some worries about standards.

Medical law and patients’ rights specialists at Irwin Mitchell act for the families of vulnerable adults and elderly people who have suffered as a result of substandard care or errors in treatment while staying in care homes, as well as the victims of abuse and neglect in such sites.

Jonathan Peacock, a Bristol-based partner in team who has vast experience in the area, said: “Care home residents and their families put their trust in such sites to ensure that they provide the best possible standards of care and support.

“However, this report has raised significant concerns that some sites are simply failing to meet their responsibilities when it comes to the provision of equipment, staffing and general standards.

“The RCN has raised concerns that this can be linked to funding cuts and we would urge authorities to ensure that any reductions put in place are done in a manner which ensures that staff at homes are able to continue to provide quality service.

“It is vital that the safety of residents always comes first.”

If you or a loved one has been abused or neglected whilst in a care, our care & nursing home abuse claims team could help you to secure compensation. See our Elder Abuse Compensation Claims page for more information.