Care workers suspended over ‘abhorrent’ mocking video

A number of staff have been suspended at a North Wales care home over the sharing of a video which appears to show an elderly man being mocked by carers.

The suspensions were made at Hillside Care Home in Huyton after the video was discovered, the Daily Post reported.

Qualia Care, which operates the home, said: “This is abhorrent and totally unacceptable behaviour and completely against the reasonable expectations of any employer, particularly in a caring environment.

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“We’re disappointed that this was not raised through our robust and confidential whistleblowing procedures which are well publicised in the home. As soon as we were made aware, we took immediate action to address matters, a number of staff have been suspended from duty and we are working with external agencies to fully investigate this incident. The matter has been reported to the police.”

A spokesperson for the CQC, who visited the home after the video had been filmed, said: “On 8 November CQC received concerning video footage taken inside Hillside Care Home in Huyton, Liverpool. CQC inspectors responded by immediately attending the home to conduct a comprehensive inspection, to ensure people are safe and well cared for.

“Everyone receiving care is entitled to be treated with proper respect and dignity and CQC has a range of enforcement powers to protect people and hold registered providers to account. Inspectors are working very closely with Knowsley Council in relation to the incident. The inspection report will be published in due course.”

A police spokesman said: “We received a report today, Friday 9 November, that a resident at Hillside Care Home in Huyton had been videoed and the video had been shared on social media.

“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”