‘A horrific catalogue of inhuman & degrading treatment’

Elderly residents physically and sexually abused

identified by staff, relatives, and some inspections. This was compounded by a failure of statutory agencies to act to protect the basic human rights of residents and their families.

“Over the course of my investigation my team spoke to 119 witnesses and I was heartbroken by many of the families’ testimonies about their loved ones’ experiences in Dunmurry Manor.

“For many relatives and staff, it took a great deal of courage to come forward and I pay tribute to their bravery and tenacity in pursuing better conditions for their family members and the older people under their care.”

The commissioner said he is “angry this problem is not a new one” as more than three years ago the previous watchdog told the Government a “whole system change of care provision in care home settings was required”. He added: “Much of that change has still not happened. We have seen the devastating consequence of inaction and lessons must be learnt.

“I am making 59 recommendations for change to the way care is commissioned and monitored; to the regulation and inspection of care homes and how complaints from families are handled.

“I have presented my report to the Secretary of State Karen Bradley and the Head of the Civil Service David Sterling.

“These recommendations seek to improve care and bring about significant change within the system in the hope the failings found within Dunmurry Manor will never be repeated again.”

Mr Lynch called in advisers to help with his probe.

In the report Prof John Williams said there were significant failures by the authorities to protect the basic

YESTERDAY

FAILINGS State agencies also rapped