An investigation has been launched following claims of abuse towards a bed-bound patient at a care home in South Wales, police have said.
Joint investigation launched
The investigation was launched alongside Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) after concerns were raised by a family member of a patient at Hallmark Greenhill Manor Care Home in Merthyr Tydfil. A woman claims her father was subjected to abuse by a staff member.
A spokesperson for the care home said the safety of their patients is a priority and the member of staff concerned in these claims is not working at the site while the investigation is ongoing.
Police and regulators respond
South Wales Police confirmed that it is investigating an alleged incident of abuse and that no arrests have been made. In a statement, CIW said it was aware of concerns relating to the treatment of a resident at the care home and that its investigation is ongoing.
A spokesperson for Hallmark Care Homes said: "The safety, wellbeing and dignity of our residents is our absolute priority and these concerning allegations about the verbal conduct of a team member go against everything we stand for."
"When concerns were first raised, we acted immediately to ensure the resident was safe and properly supported. The team member concerned is not currently working in the home while a formal investigation takes place."
"We informed our safeguarding and regulatory partners, and we are fully supporting the multi-agency investigation that is underway."
"We have robust measures in place to recruit safely, have a comprehensive training programme in place and additional face-to-face professional responsibilities training was held last week. We are in close contact with the resident’s family, and with the families of everyone who lives at the home."
"We hope the local community will recognise that the allegations do not reflect the compassion and dedication of the wider team and the hundreds of people who work at the home."
A spokesperson for CIW said: "Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) is aware of concerns relating to the treatment of a resident at Hallmark Greenhill Manor Care Home, and our thoughts are with them and their family at this difficult time. The provider notified us of the incident and is undertaking an investigation."
"South Wales Police and other safeguarding agencies are involved, and enquiries remain ongoing."
"Everyone receiving care should be treated with dignity, respect and compassion, and CIW take all allegations of abuse, neglect, and poor practice seriously."
"We will continue to monitor the situation closely, working with partner agencies and taking any necessary regulatory action where required, to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of the resident and other people living at the home."
"As investigations are ongoing, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this time. We would encourage anyone with concerns about the care being provided at this, or any other care home, to contact us."
A spokesman for South Wales Police said: "South Wales Police are investigating an alleged incident of abuse that took place at the Hallmark Greenhill Manor Care Home in Merthyr Tydfil."
"No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing."
