Damning Report Finds Care Home Neglect, Residents Left for Hours

Residents at Brantwood Hall Care Home in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, have been subjected to prolonged periods of neglect, including being left in chairs for up to nine hours while loud music played, according to a scathing report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The follow-up review, conducted between July 6 and July 7, found that no improvements had been made since a previous inspection where the home was rated "inadequate." The CQC cited a persistent lack of "effective leadership, management, and oversight of the service," with new problems arising concerning resident care.

One particularly concerning case detailed in the report involved a resident unable to move independently who was left seated for a minimum of nine hours. Music, including modern pop and rap, played continuously from a device out of the resident's reach. Staff admitted they could not recall the last time the individual had been outdoors, and activity records showed no outdoor access or meaningful engagement between May 1 and July 6. "Well, [person] doesn't go out, [person] just stays in their room, [person] has given up," one staff member was quoted as saying.

Residents expressed their distress, with one stating, "I would love something to read. If only I had more to read. I would like to go to the library and find something. I can pay for a newspaper I've got money." Another resident, left sitting in the lounge area all day, responded to an inquiry about their well-being with, "No, would you want to sit in here like this all day?"

The inspection also uncovered instances of residents wearing urine-soaked clothing for extended periods, with staff only alerted after inspectors intervened. The CQC concluded that residents' dignity was not consistently maintained, leading to neglect and social isolation. Some staff reportedly referred to residents as "awkward" or "naughty," and one individual was addressed by their room number.

In terms of safety, the report noted that a serious injury to one resident had not been reported to the CQC, and records were incomplete. Insufficient staffing levels and poor teamwork among the present staff were also identified. One professional told inspectors, "I feel so sorry for [person]. I've known them seven years. [Person] is tortured. They used to be able to go to a quiet lounge. Now when I come, they are always in their room."

While some residents had opportunities to participate in activities, the report highlighted a lack of dementia-friendly activities and purpose in residents' daily lives. Support for accessing the community, fresh air, or outdoor spaces was also insufficient.

Staff expressed feelings of being under pressure and uncertain about their job security, with one remarking, "It's a blame company." Another stated, "I'm afraid for my job, we all are. I think the home will close. Not because of [CQC], but because they [the provider] don't care."

Following this inspection, Brantwood Hall Care Home remains in special measures.