Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Covid-19 Inquiry Opens Sixth Module to Probe Care Home Failures

Hearings this week examine how chaotic policies allowed unchecked viral spread with severe shortages to devastate adult social care.

Image
Image

Overview

  • The sixth module of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry began on June 30 to investigate policy and operational failures in adult social care during the pandemic.
  • Witnesses described a “generational slaughter” in care homes as untested hospital discharges and PPE shortages fuelled rapid, uncontrolled outbreaks.
  • Frontline staff recounted the emotional toll of isolating residents and conducting final farewell visits over Zoom or at windows.
  • Dr Jane Townson of the Homecare Association told the inquiry that chaotic guidance left home-based carers ill-equipped and many vulnerable people without essential services.
  • Chaired by Lady Heather Hallett, the inquiry will hear evidence from former Health Secretary Matt Hancock later this week, advancing its multi-year, £220 million examination.