'Abuse' homes could have been closed
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.GOVERNMENT inspectors who read a confidential report into allegations of abuse in a private home for mentally handicapped adults were so alarmed that they immediately told the local authority it had legal powers to close them.
Buckinghamshire council had decided it did not have the power to ask a court to revoke the licences of the two homes when it sent the report to Herbert Laming, chief inspector of the Social Services Inspectorate in August.
A Department of Health spokesman said yesterday: 'Mr Laming was so disturbed by the dreadful contents of the report he took it to our solicitors for advice. He was utterly appalled the council didn't think they could take action under the Act because they could and that is what he told them.'
Last night the council said: 'We have already taken independent legal advice on this case and are consulting our legal adviser again in the light of Mr Laming's letter.'
Mr Laming's advice emerged after the chairman of Buckinghamshire social services committee wrote to the Independent denying the report was suppressed. It revealed allegations that residents in the two homes run by Longcare Ltd were raped, beaten and humiliated.
'Slave labour', page 3
Letters, page 17
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments