Police Investigate Death of Care Home Resident Who Had Suffered Injuries
Police are currently investigating the death of a 96-year-old woman who sustained injuries while residing at a care home. Mary Thomas, who was living with dementia, passed away in hospital 16 days after being brought from Llys Y Seren care home in Port Talbot in an ambulance. She was reportedly admitted to the hospital with a broken collarbone and cracked cheekbone. On February 14, Mrs. Thomas’s family found her lying in a pool of blood on the floor next to her bed, with severe bruising visible across large parts of her body.
Following a 32-hour wait due to bed blockage at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, Mrs. Thomas was eventually admitted but sadly passed away on March 1. Initially, the cause of death was attributed to pneumonia contracted in the hospital, but Mrs. Thomas’s daughter, Janet Pearce, expressed dissatisfaction with the death certificate. She raised concerns about her mother’s care at the care home with the Neath Port Talbot council’s social services department, leading to a criminal investigation being launched by the police.
A police spokesperson stated, “South Wales Police is investigating the circumstances which led to the sad death of Mrs. Thomas. Specially trained officers from the vulnerable adult investigation unit are working with the family, care home, and the local authority in this ongoing investigation.” Pobl, the care home owner, mentioned it is cooperating with the police and is dedicated to offering excellent care.
Mrs. Thomas, who had been a legal clerk for a council and a beloved grandmother of four, had been a resident at the care home for eight years before her death. In 2022, her family had raised concerns about her “appearance and dignity”. Despite the complaints not being upheld by Pobl, improvements were implemented at the care home, including professional boundary training. Mrs. Pearce revealed that her mother had suffered injuries from falls at the home, given her health conditions.
Describing the events leading up to her mother’s death, Mrs. Pearce recounted how she found her mother with severe injuries after being informed about a fall at the care home. Despite expressing concerns about her mother’s health to the care home staff, the family was met with a lack of proper care. Mrs. Pearce emphasized the need for answers regarding the circumstances surrounding her mother’s injuries, stating that they are seeking closure.
Pobl’s statement expressed sympathy for Mrs. Thomas’s family and stated its commitment to offering quality care. The Swansea Bay health board extended its condolences to the family and offered assistance if they have any queries or concerns about Mrs. Thomas’s treatment. Mrs. Pearce fondly remembered her mother as a resilient and cultured individual, highlighting her achievements and personality.
The investigation into Mrs. Thomas’s death remains ongoing, with authorities working closely with her family and relevant parties to seek justice and uncover the truth behind the tragic events.