Cygnet Wast Hills hospital put into special measures

Following an unannounced inspection this year, it was reported that three patients had harmed themselves on more than one occasion while on high-level observation. Headbanging was observed and one patient headbanged in the toilet while the inspection was taking place. The patient’s notes indicated that they had headbanged in the toilet three times previously.

The hospital in Alvechurch, Bromsgrove was rated inadequate for safety and leadership and inspectors said the hospital’s effectiveness required improvement.

The services were only rated good in being caring and responsive to people’s needs according to a report published 11 August, 2021 following the four-day inspection in May.

Leigh Day abuse lawyers are currently investigating claims of abuse at Cygnet Yew Trees Hospital in Frinton-on-Sea in Essex.

According to the latest critical Cygnet inspection report some staff were not using the rapid tranquillisation policy correctly and were not adhering to correct physical health protocols following rapid tranquillisation, meaning patients were at risk of potential harm.

One patient had 12 episodes of headbanging over one month to 13 May, but staff had only recorded one instance of neurological observations being taken during this time. Another patient had seven episodes of headbanging and no neurological observations had been taken and recorded.

One episode of self harm was recorded in the patient care record but was not recorded on the incident report.

There was a lack of meaningful activity on wards for people with learning disabilities or autism.

Leigh Day solicitor Catriona Rubens said:

“As we are already investigating allegations of abuse of patients at the Cygnet Yew Trees Hospital, this latest CQC inspection report makes us very concerned about the safeguarding standards within this private hospital chain and potential breaches of the patients’ human rights.
"We urge anyone who has concerns about the safety of their loved ones to get in touch.”