Detectives have launched a probe into abuse and “psychological torture” at a hospital for vulnerable adults.
Hidden footage from inside NHS-funded Whorlton Hall has apparently exposed horrifying mistreatment of patients with learning disabilities or autism.
One care worker it is claimed called a patient a “fat c**t”, while another said the hospital was a “house of mongs”.
Sixteen employees have been suspended after an undercover probe into the Co Durham hospital by BBC Panorama, which aired last night.
Harrowing scenes captured by reporter Olivia Davies from inside Whorlton Hall over a two-month period allegedly show staff mocking, taunting, intimidating and physically restraining patients.
One female patient with severe autism and scared of men appeared to be singled out by staff. M
ale care workers warned the patient her room would be inundated with men in a bid to keep her quiet. They called this “pressing the man button”.
Another time, a male worker allegedly threatened to “deck her” if she tried to run at staff.
Professor of clinical psychology and disability Glynis Murphy told Panorama: “It’s like psychological torture, she is stuck there.”
The parents of the female patient, who spent 13 months at the facility, wept at the film. Her mum said: “It just sickens me.”
The reporter saw staff restrain patients – once for 32 minutes.
The 12-patient privately owned but publicly funded unit was rated “good” by the Care Quality Commission in 2017.
Dr Paul Lelliott, deputy chief inspector of hospitals at the CQC, has apologised to patients.
Owners Cygnet said: “We are shocked by the allegations. We have transferred all the patients to other hospitals.”
Durham Constabulary confirmed the criminal probe.
