"Epsom Hospital and the Healthcare Commission report Caring for Diginity"

Below is my e-mail to the Healthcare Commission following the publication of Caring for Dignity , their report on dignity in care for older people in hospital (September 2007). “I find it highly ironic that you have published this report. When I brought to your attention the catalogue of abuse, neglect, and mistreatment my mother suffered at Epsom Hospital you did not appear to give a damn. You seemed completely unconcerned about abuse and neglect of my elderly mother by this trust. From my point of view, bringing these matters to the attention of the Healthcare Commission was a waste of time. I attended the Epsom & St. Helier Hospital AGM on 25 September 2007. Some members of that audience had witnessed the same neglect of their elderly (now deceased) family members as that experienced by my mother. These new acts of neglect occurred after those against my mother – so the Epsom & St. Helier Trust seems to have learned nothing from my complaints to them. You, the Healthcare Commission, did not tackle them about any of the mistreatment, abuse or neglect so the problems are ongoing. On page 59 of your report you say: "Dignity in care is a high priority for the Healthcare Commission". This must be a very recent volt face by your organisation. From my experience of the Healthcare Commission you have allowed Epsom & St Helier to do as they wish to elderly vulnerable people.”