Swanage care home residents unlikely to return until after police investigation

Three people died at the Gainsborough home on Wednesday (23rd October)

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 27th Oct 2024

Residents from a Swanage care home, evacuated after the deaths of three people there, might not be allowed back until a police investigation is over.

Two men and a woman died at the Gainsborough Home on Wednesday (23rd October) - with carbon monoxide poisoning the main line of inquiry.

Seven other people were hospitalised after the incident, but none were seriously ill.

All the other residents were taken to nearby churches and a village hall, before being moved elsewhere to continue their care.

Dorset Council has given us an update in a statement:

“As soon as the police have concluded their investigation, they will inform partners when access to care home is permitted. All partner agencies are in close contact, and all the residents have been provided with alternative placements.”

Churches open to support people affected

Today (Sunday 27th October), a Swanage church will be opened up private prayers, for people to pay their respects.

All Saints Church helped to look after 40 other residents in the aftermath of the incident.

It'll be open today from 3.00pm for the local community to attend.

St Mark's Church has also been opened up since the incident for similar reflection.

Next weekend (Sunday 3rd November), a service is due to be help at St Mary's Church in Swanage for the families of those who've lost loved ones.

A 60 year old woman was arrested by Dorset Police on suspicion of manslaughter early into the enquiries - she's since been released under investigation.

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