Basildon University Hospital Admits Safety Law Breach

(BBC) – A HOSPITAL IN ESSEX where a severely disabled man died has admitted breaching health and safety law.

Kyle Flack, 20, from Stanford-le-Hope, who had severe cerebral palsy, was found dead at Basildon University Hospital, on 12 October 2006.

His head had become trapped in the rails around his bed, an inquest heard.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) brought the prosecution, accusing the hospital of failing to ensure the patient’s safety.

Matthew Taylor, prosecuting on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), told magistrates Mr Flack died at the hospital, two days after being admitted with stomach problems.

“The failings of the hospital were causative of death,” Mr Taylor told magistrates.

“Not only do we say that the trust’s failings caused the death of Kyle but we also say they failed to heed previous warnings.”

After the hearing, Mr Flack’s mother, Gill, condemned some care standards at the hospital as “absolute crap”.

She said bosses should be “held accountable” and called for “staff sackings”.

Maggie Rogers, director of nursing at Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , said: “Firstly, I repeat our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Kyle Flack.

“I can reassure our patients that since his tragic death in 2006, we have taken action that includes improving the management of equipment and the care of our patients with special needs.”

The hospital will be sentenced on 15 March after magistrates committed the case to Basildon Crown Court.