Two Leek hospitals have been rated 'inadequate' and placed in special measures after patients died due to Covid-19 outbreaks.

The Care Quality Commission gave 'inadequate' ratings to the John Munroe Hospital and the Edith Shaw Hospital - both of which are mental health hospitals - after whistleblowers came forward with concerns.

The hospitals provide treatment for around 60 patients, but now run the risk of being de-registered if they fail to improve.

The CQC found that poor infection control measures were in place at the hospitals, and Covid-19 related deaths were registered following an outbreak in December 2020.

The commission's report was published yesterday (Tuesday), and found that patients at the John Munroe were left without psychological care because the whole psychology team had resigned.

The report also said that equipment meant only for single use had instead been washed and re-used, raising hygiene concerns.

At the Edith Shaw hospital, which only treats women, the report found that wards were not kept clean or well-maintained.

However, the reports did note that at both hospitals, patients were treated with compassion and kindness.

Following the report's publication the John Munroe Group's operation director Paul Birks said in a statement: "We would like to take the opportunity to assure our patients, staff, families and carers and the public that we are all working tirelessly to ensure that robust systems are in place to effectively safeguard and protect everyone in our care."

The John Munroe Group added that it was "disappointed" at the inspection's results but acknowledged that "key areas for improvement" had been highlighted.

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