The company responsible for operating The Priory Hospital has been fined £140,000 by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) following the tragic death of 21-year-old Francesca Whyatt. The incident occurred on the hospital’s Emerald Ward, where Francesca was found unconscious and later passed away.
Francesca, a resident of Knutsford in Cheshire, was transferred to The Priory Hospital in Roehampton, London, in March 2013. On September 25, she was discovered unconscious in a patient lounge on the top floor of the hospital. It was determined that Francesca had used her tights as a ligature in response to an incident involving other patients.
An investigation conducted by the HSE revealed that Priory Healthcare Limited had failed to ensure the provision of in-patient psychiatric treatment without exposing patients to risks to their health and safety. As a result, the company pleaded guilty to failing to discharge a duty under Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
Francesca’s brother, Daniel Whyatt, described her as a “truly selfless and special individual.” He expressed the profound impact her untimely death has had on their family and how it has tarnished their memories of her. He also emphasised the ongoing pain and anger they feel whenever her name is mentioned.
During the court hearing at Southwark Crown Court on November 14, 2023, Priory Healthcare Limited was fined £140,000. The court will determine the costs at a later date.
Paul Hems, the head of operations for London at HSE, commented on the case, stating, “This incredibly sad case highlights the need for suitable and sufficient systems to be put in place to monitor patients.” Hems also emphasised that employers should be aware that HSE will hold them accountable for complying with health and safety legislation. He further noted that incidents like this occurring after April 2015 would fall under the jurisdiction of the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
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