Firm admits failings after OAP's death at Shropshire care home

Phyllis Jones died at Westlands Care Home in Wem in 2013 after falling on a bed lever that compressed her neck and stopped her breathing.

This week David Coull, chief executive of Coverage Care Services Limited, appeared in Shrewsbury Magistrates Court to represent the company over two charges relating to the 90-year-old resident.

Coull pleaded guilty on behalf of the company to failing to implement measures that were reasonably practicable to ensure the health and safety of Mrs Jones while she was a resident.

He also admitted the company had failed to undertake a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks associated with the use of an Easylever Bed Grab Rail that had been used by Mrs Jones while a resident in the company's care.

Following the hearing, a statement from Coverage Care Services Limited said: "Everyone at Coverage Care Services extends their sympathies to the family in this case.

"We have accepted where there was fault on our part and expressed that to the court. We would not wish to comment further before the case has been before the judge in the crown court."

An inquest last year heard that Mrs Jones, from Whixall, was found lying face down with her neck resting over a bed lever and her body on the floor at the home on Station Road on February 27, 2013.

Mrs Jones used the lever, which was found to be not securely strapped, to get in and out of bed independently.

The two-day inquest held in March concluded at Westgate council offices in Bridgnorth when a jury ruled Mrs Jones died as a result of asphyxia caused by compression of the neck following contact with the lever.

Mrs Jones had several existing health conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure and cataracts.

She also had ischemic heart disease which could have caused her to become dizzy and may have been the reason why she fell.

At the inquest Gloria Williams, assistant manager of Westlands Nursing Home, admitted checks had not been carried out on the bed lever.

But she did say that the lever, which was fitted by an external occupational health therapist, had not come loose and had never been faulty.

Barrister Matthew Snarr, representing Westlands Nursing Home, said following Mrs Jones' death changes had been made so bed levers undergo risk assessments.

The care home last year closed controversially following financial difficulties and saw residents and staff relocated to other homes.

Shrewsbury Magistrates Court heard on Tuesday the company had a £22 million turnover. The case was adjourned to be dealt with at Shrewsbury Crown Court on March 21.