MP calls for return to in-house service

An MP has called on Southwark Council to take its home care
service back in-house after two agency carers were accused of
assaulting a 90-year-old woman with Alzheimer’s.

Simon Hughes, who represents North Southwark and Bermondsey,
said vulnerable people, such as alleged victim Dorothy Blackmore,
would be better served by an in-house service.

Police are investigating the allegations against the carers, who
are employed by Planned Personnel. They have been suspended pending
the investigation. As Community Care went to press, no arrests had
been made. A Southwark spokesperson said the agency has acted in
the proper way about the allegations.

Blackmore’s care has been transferred to another provider.