Dementia services ‘in crisis’

Shirley should have been protected from the virus but instead fell victim to the outbreak. It is essential that their family are given answers into what went wrong in their final days.

“The only way people like the Milne family and thousands of others will get answers is if the Government agrees to hold a public inquiry or a full and thorough independent investigation.” Excelcare, which runs the home, admits a worker did not wear proper PPE on one occasion while aiding Norman.

In a letter to Steve’s family it stated: “Having reviewed your video footage it is clear to see that the nurse who administered your father’s medication on the morning of the April 15 clearly did not

DEMENTIA care is a “ticking timebomb” with services stretched to “breaking point” in lockdown, says charity Alzheimer’s UK.

GPS’ diagnoses have plummeted and 7,000 new callers have rung the charity’s helpline, fearing

relatives have dementia. Calls from suicidal family carers have also rocketed.

Charity chief Helen Foster said it faces £45million losses. “I worry how we are going to continue,” she said.

To help, go to alzheimers. org.uk/emergency use the required PPE or follow the safe administration of medication. This matter has resulted in disciplinary action.”

The firm insisted staff were following Public Health England guidance on PPE.

A spokesman for Excelcare said “the concerns raised are currently undergoing investigation and we are therefore unable to comment at this stage. In the meantime we wish to give our assurances that our residents and their families are at the heart of everything we do.

“We take all complaints very seriously and, where needed, we will learn lessons and use these to improve our services and continue to make them safer and more responsive.”