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BLEACH DEATH PROBE

A CARE home that has been strongly criticised for its safety has launched an investigation after an elderly resident died from eating a bleach tablet.

Balmoral Court in Newcastle-upon-Tyne was rated as “requiring improvement” in its latest inspection.

It was found to have not taken “reasonable steps to reduce risks”.

Probe … Balmoral Care Home in Newcastle has launched an investigation after an elderly man ate a bleach tablet and died

But fears over the safety it provides its residents — many of whom suffer from dementia — have grown further after a client ate a highly toxic bleach tablet.

The unnamed man was rushed to hospital on Thursday but later died.

All reasonable steps had not been taken to reduce risks and make sure that people’s care was provided in a safe and hygienic environment.

It is believed he was left unsupervised with access to the deadly cleaning product, Chronicle Live reports.

The Care Home operated by Crown Care Group confirmed the man’s death and said that “appropriate authorities” had been informed.

A spokesman for the 62-room home said: “We are very sad to confirm one of our residents at Balmoral Court has died in hospital after an incident at the home.

“A full investigation is under way and we are liaising closely with the family and the appropriate authorities.”

Toxic … Resident reportedly had access to the deadly cleaning product

He added: “Until that investigation is complete it would be inappropriate to comment further other than to say we are deeply shocked and saddened by this incident.

“We send our sincere condolences to the family.”

SOURCE: The Sun, Neal Baker