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TV exposes of elder abuse in Care Homes

Television programmes often contain distressing and shocking information on the reality of some care home provision  and the inability of the current regulation system to guarantee protection from abusive situations.  It is important however to remember that most of our care homes provide good quality care, from people and organisations who are genuine in what they do.  Some however continue to be appalling.

To help you in this situation we have produced a simple guide to what you should consider when looking at a care home for yourself or a loved one, and what you should do if you are concerned about abuse.  You can download a copy of that guide by clicking here.

Never accept an abusive situation.  Never let someone stop you doing something you believe to be right.  You have the same rights as everyone else in the UK to be treated with dignity, respect and understanding.  Care homes are paid to provide you with quality care and you should think of them as a ‘long term hotel’.  You wouldn’t accept poor services from a hotel, and nor should you from a care home.

Unless something is life-threatening or a criminal act, try to resolve it with the person in charge of the care home before raising the matter elsewhere.  Good quality care providers will want to put things right when they are brought to light.

Regardless of your age you have the same rights as everyone else in the UK to health care and treatment.  If you are not well, you are entitled to see a doctor.  If you feel that an illness, injury or disease is serious you have the right to attend a hospital, if necessary by dialling 999.

If something makes you feel uncomfortable, or feels unfair, you should complain. 

If something is a crime you should report it to the police, if necessary by dialling 999.

If you are concerned about a relative/friend, ask questions until you are satisfied with the answers.  If you are not satisfied, complain.  If you are unsure, get a second opinion. 

If you are concerned about the health of a relative/friend and you feel the care home is not responding with sufficient seriousness or urgency then seek assistance, if necessary by dialling 999.   As soon as possible, write down what happened.  Keep any evidence of what occurred and record who was present.  Remember, the police may need evidence protected so never clean garments or throw away items as they might be needed for forensic evidence.

When, and if, you can, make a complaint to the person in charge of the care home.  If you feel unable to do this, contact your family or friends and ask them to visit you.  Tell them what happened and ask them to complain on your behalf.  Alternatively, ring us or get someone to do it on your behalf, and we'll make the complaint for you.  

More Information:

The Guide to choosing a care home

Learn more about elder abuse