Lennon criticises report into Whitehills
Monica Lennon has branded a report into the 23 COVID-related deaths at Whitehills Care Home a‘box-ticking’ exercise.
And she has called for a more “thorough”investigation into care practices there.
Her criticism comes following the family’s complaints and subsequent Care Inspectorate report, which paint a damning picture of practices at the home.
The report found poor levels of care at the home that were detrimental to the wellbeing of residents and may have contributed to the 72-year-old’s death from chronic pneumonia.
Labour MSP, Ms Lennon, said:“The family behind this earlier complaint must be heartbroken over his treatment, and the findings which upheld their complaint in January 2020, just eight weeks before lockdown, are extremely worrying.
“I am disappointed by the response of the Care Inspectorate so far, and it’s hard to have confidence in their subsequent endorsement of Whitehills given the revelation of this complaint which dates back to late 2019 and early 2020.
“It raises even more questions than answers. For example, was the Care Inspectorate satisfied its requirements had been acted upon?
“I now fear the later May 27 report was a tick box exercise – what is missing is a thorough and honest investigation of any potential failings during the height of the pandemic.
“Families really need honest answers about what could have been done differently, especially during April and May, and whether there were any ongoing issues at Whitehills which contributed to that.”
Ms Lennon said her calls were not about individual staff, rather any systemic or organisational failures, acknowledging that most families have“nothing but praise”for the carers who look after their loved ones.
SNP MSP Linda Fabiani said:“This report obviously paints a different picture to the one published later.
“I have been in regular contact with the Care Inspectorate and I do hope it is the case that lessons have been learned for the benefit of all residents and the peace of mind of their family members.”
Whitehills – run by Thistle Healthcare – say they have complied with the requirements from the Inspectorate since the damning report.
A spokeswoman said:“The quality of care we provide is always our top priority and we feel a great loss when any of our residents pass away.
“As a registered care provider, we are, quite rightly, closely and robustly regulated. As such, we are legally bound to address any and all issues raised in line with the timescales provided.
“We have, and continue to, work closely with the care authorities to ensure we maintain the highest possible standard of care for all of our residents.”