Failure exposed patients to risk

Comprehensive management failure left elderly mental health patients isolated and at risk, an investigation which raises concerns about the treatment of older people across the NHS has found.

The Commission for Health Improvement investigation into allegations of physical and emotional abuse at specialist unit Rowan ward, run by Manchester Mental Health and Social Care trust, found an old-fashioned nursing culture and poor systems to safeguard patients.

CHI was called in by Greater Manchester strategic health authority after patients suffered injuries, including a scald and unexplained bruising.

This is CHI's third investigation into the care of vulnerable older people, and CHI acting chief executive Jocelyn Cornwell said it received continual requests for investigations in this area: 'We are seriously concerned that circumstances surrounding this investigation are not unique.

'NHS managers and commissioners should take a good look at this report and ensure recommendations are embedded in their own services.'

CHI recommended the introduction of a trust-wide incident reporting system and mechanisms to ensure staff practise modern, multidisciplinary, evidence-based care.

There was a need to strengthen management capacity and leadership at every level, the report said.

CHI called on the Department of Health to review complex accountability arrangements for the quality of care in older people's services, particularly in health and social care trusts.

Manchester Mental Health and Social Care trust chief executive Andrew Butters said: 'The report's findings make grim reading and I would like to apologise again to the patients and their families.'

Greater Manchester SHA clinical strategy director Dr Chris Harrison said: 'CHI has made clear this is an issue for all trusts, primary care trusts and SHAs to address.'

Rowan ward was closed in December 2002.A police investigation into the allegations concluded with a decision not to prosecute.