Priory Hospital slapped with £140k fine after tragic death of 21-year-old patient
Young woman found unconscious on Emerald Ward
The Priory Hospital operator has been hit with a hefty £140,000 fine following the heartbreaking death of 21-year-old Francesca Whyatt. Francesca, from Knutsford, Cheshire, was found unconscious on the hospital’s Emerald Ward and later died. The hospital in Roehampton, London, had taken her in March 2013.
Fatal ligature incident sparks investigation
On September 25, Francesca was found in a patient lounge on the hospital’s top floor. The shocking probe revealed she had used her tights as a ligature after an incident involving other patients. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) swiftly launched an investigation.
Priory Healthcare admits safety failings
HSE’s findings showed Priory Healthcare Limited didn’t provide a safe environment for psychiatric in-patients. The company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, failing to protect patients from harm.
“This incredibly sad case highlights the need for suitable and sufficient systems to be put in place to monitor patients,” said Paul Hems, HSE Head of Operations. “Employers must know that HSE will act if health and safety laws are broken.”
Family mourns lost “selfless and special” Francesca
Francesca’s brother Daniel Whyatt paid tribute to his sister, calling her “a truly selfless and special individual.” He spoke of the lasting pain and anger her untimely death has caused, which has forever marred the family’s memories of her.
Court hands down punishment
At Southwark Crown Court on November 14, 2023, the hospital operator was fined £140,000. The court will set costs later. Paul Hems also highlighted that cases like this, occurring after April 2015, now fall under the scrutiny of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), signalling tougher oversight ahead.
