Children’s hospital to close amid allegations of patient mistreatment

Joyce Parker Hospital, a facility for children's mental health operated by Cygnet Health Care, is set to close amid serious allegations of patient mistreatment. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) raised concerns after reports emerged of staff physically dragging patients across the floor during restraint procedures. Parents have expressed their distress, with one mother stating her daughter is in a worse mental state than when admitted. Another parent recounted a traumatic incident involving her son being restrained by male staff, despite protocols indicating only female staff should perform checks. The hospital has a troubled history, having been placed in special measures in 2019 following the death of a patient due to inadequate staffing. After this incident, the facility was repurposed to serve children, but the recent allegations have prompted a reevaluation of its operations. Cygnet Health Care has announced plans to transition the hospital to serve adult patients, indicating a significant shift in focus. Despite the allegations, Cygnet Health Care has denied any wrongdoing, asserting their commitment to high standards of care. They have stated that their immediate priority is to support the young patients currently in their care while they prepare for the transition. Parents and advocates are concerned about the implications of this closure, fearing for the well-being of the children who will be affected. The decision to close the children's unit raises questions about the future of mental health services for young people in the area, as parents seek assurance that their children will receive appropriate care in a safe environment. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges within mental health facilities and the need for accountability and reform.