Connor Sparrowhawk: neglect at NHS unit contributed to death

The jury ruled that the death of Connor Sparrowhawk – who drowned after an epileptic seizure at a care unit in Headington, Oxfordshire, in 2013 – was “contributed to by neglect”.

It said there were “very serious failings” in the care given by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and that communication with Connor’s family was inadequate.

It also said there were not enough staff trained in epilepsy on the unit and that there were errors in bathing arrangements there.

‘Fully preventable’

In a statement, Connor’s family said the care he received was “of an unacceptable standard”, adding: “Connor’s death was fully preventable. Over the past two weeks we have heard some harrowing accounts of the care provided to Connor.

“We have also heard some heartfelt apologies and some staff taking responsibility for their actions for which we are grateful.

“Since Connor’s death, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust have consistently tried to duck responsibility, focusing more on their reputation than the intense pain and distress they caused (and continue to cause us).”

Charlotte Haworth, the Sparrowhawks’ solicitor, said: “This outcome properly reflects how badly Connor was failed and the wholly inadequate care that he received.”

The jury’s “damning conclusion” was testament to the commitment of his family, friends and campaigners “to obtaining the truth”.

Ms Haworth added: “They have been forced to fight for this and should not have had to have to. Connor should not have died. Southern Health and the NHS have a responsibility to ensure that this never happens again and that there are radical improvements in support and care provision provided to individuals with learning disabilities and their families.”

‘Deeply sorry’

Katrina Percy, trust chief executive, said: “I am deeply sorry that Connor died whilst in our care. Connor needed our support. We did not keep him safe and his death was preventable.

“We have thoroughly investigated the circumstances surrounding Connor’s death and continue to work hard to help ensure that this doesn’t happen again. In the two years since he died we have made many changes to the way we provide services for people with learning disabilities.”

Ms Percy said the close had decided to close the unit Connor attended at the end of 2013 after a “poor” inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

She added: “Among other steps taken, the trust has strengthened its clinical leadership in Learning Disability services. We have also implemented mandatory comprehensive epilepsy training for all our staff caring for people with learning disabilities.

“The experiences of Connor’s family have brought into sharp focus the need to engage more effectively with patients, their families and carers, learning from their experience and expertise and involving them in every decision concerning care.”