Swanage care home firm speaks out as three die and woman arrested

A woman has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after three people died and seven others were hospitalised following a major incident at a care home in Swanage

A spokesperson for the Swanage care home where three residents were found dead said they were “deeply saddened” - as a 60-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Dorset Police said it received a report at 7.16am on Wednesday regarding three residents - two men, aged 74 and 91, and an 86-year-old woman - who were found dead at Gainsborough Care Home in Ulwell Road, Swanage.

Seven people were taken to hospital as a precaution and are not in a serious condition, Dorset Police added. Other residents from the address were evacuated to a location where they could receive appropriate care.

A spokesperson for Gainsborough Care Home issued a statement following the arrest, it said: “We are deeply saddened that three residents living at our care home passed away yesterday. Our heartfelt condolences remain with their families and friends at this upsetting and difficult time.

“We are fully co-operating with lead agencies as the investigation into what has happened continues. Our priority has been to work with Dorset Council and BCP Council to safely move residents to other care homes until we are advised that they can return to the home.

“We are ensuring that those directly concerned are supported and kept up-to-date with the changing circumstances, with the necessary information and reassurance provided.

“We would like to extend our thanks to our care teams for their work in managing the situation and caring for residents during such a challenging time. We are also grateful for the kind messages received and the practical support provided from partner public sector agencies, the local community and other social care providers.

“The home has long been a core part of the Swanage community, and our residents, families and team members are all affected by this tragic incident and are touched by the support received.”

In an update on Thursday afternoon, the force said the 60-year-old local woman who was arrested had been released under investigation while inquiries continue.

The arrest was made to enable the force to establish whether there were any actions or omissions that are believed to be grossly negligent, and inquiries will continue into this, police added. Gas distribution company SGN - which said it owns and operates all of the pipes underground and up until the gas meter - said it completed safety checks and there has been no gas leak involving its network.

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