Coroner Finds Care Home Failed Covid Safety Measures

A coroner has ruled that Covid-19 safety measures were not "effectively or consistently" followed at the Holmesley Care Home in Devon, where seven elderly residents died after contracting the virus. The deceased, ranging from 70 to 102 years old, all passed away in March or April 2021, during a time when strict infection control protocols were in place. Coroner Alison Longhorn noted that while the home had proper policies, compliance by staff was lacking, with accusations that some did not wear PPE, continued working after testing positive, and that the manager ignored positive test results. Despite recognizing these issues, Longhorn stated that there was insufficient evidence to conclude negligence on the part of the staff. A family member honored the deceased with seven roses in the coroner's court. The inquest highlighted troubling behaviors by staff, including one nurse who dismissed Covid-19 as a conspiracy and subsequently required intensive care after contracting the virus.