Muckamore Abbey: NI Patient Voice warns 'the worst is yet to come'
Family support groups raises concerns about scandal hit hospital
Last updated 27th Jun 2019
One year after the Muckamore Abbey scandal hit the headlines, there is a warning the abuse allegations are 'just the tip of the iceberg.'
The claims come from local group NI Patient Voice which supports a wide range of families in care homes and hospitals.
A damning review into the safety of adults with learning difficulties at the hospital revealed serious allegations of abuse.
The PSNI launched a probe into the claims which is continuing.
After the allegations came to light, the Belfast Trust apologised.
The Permanent Secretary for Health in Northern Ireland Richard Pengelly said 'no one should have to call Muckamore their home where there are better care options.'
The Department also committed to resettling patients by the end of 2019 if possible.
Aiden Hanna is from NI Patient Voice and a former care worker.
He told Downtown Cool FM about his experience at Muckamore Abbey Hospital:
"I worked in Muckamore in the past and during training for care in the community I worked in one of the old wards in Muckamore.
"The experience with staff working there...I thought all the staff were excellent and really cared for the patients.
"The actual environment in terms of bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms were totally unacceptable for anybody to be living in in this day and age."
In a statement, the Belfast Trust confirmed 20 staff remain suspended while the PSNI probe continues.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health said "this is a challenging and complex task, alongside ensuring the provision of safe, effective and human rights compliant care at Muckamore, requires a coordinated and robust response from the entire HSC system.
"The HSC is continuing to cooperate fully with with the ongoing PSNI investigation and ensure all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of patients."
But Aiden said he fears more abuse will be uncovered in future:
"Sadly the worst is yet to come, I don't think we've even scratched the surface really as to what's going to come out of that Muckamore investigation.
"The PSNI are investigating the allegations currently, we know the Belfast Trust has apologised."