| Sumario: | Purpose -- This paper concerns the fall-out from a TV programme which exposed the arbitrariness of cruelty at a private hospital that purported to provide assessment, treatment and rehabilitation to adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health problems. The paper seeks to address the issues involved. Design/methodology/approach -- It describes the principal findings of a Serious Case Review which was commissioned after the TV broadcast, and outlines some of the activities designed to reduce the likelihood of such abuses recurring. Findings -- From policy, commissioning, regulation, management, service design and practice perspectives, events at Winterbourne View Hospital highlight a gulf between professionals, professionals and their organisations, and leadership shortcomings. Originality/value -- The English government responded promptly and encouragingly to the wretched circumstances of patients at Winterbourne View Hospital with a 'Timetable of Actions'. The Serious Case Review which was commissioned after the TV broadcast contributed to the growing scepticism of 'out of sight, out of mind' placements. It covered wide-ranging territory.
|
|---|