Whorlton Hall: BBC Panorama footage shows hospital ill treatment

Four carers have been given suspended prison sentences for ill-treating patients at a secure hospital.

A criminal investigation began after an undercover BBC Panorama investigation showed patients being mocked by staff at Whorlton Hall in County Durham between 2018 and 2019.

The specialist hospital for people with complex needs, who required 24-hour-care, was privately run by Cygnet but funded by the NHS. It has since closed.

Panorama sent undercover reporter Olivia Davies to work shifts at the 17-bed unit for two months. Durham Police started an investigation after the programme was broadcast.

Follow BBC Tees on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.

  • Tees