Three individuals were discovered deceased at a care home in Dorset, with seven others hospitalized due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Dozens of vulnerable residents were evacuated from Gainsborough care home in Swanage and taken to a nearby church, with some requiring wheelchairs or stretchers while alternative accommodations were arranged for them.
Ch Supt Heather Dixey from Dorset police indicated that carbon monoxide poisoning is the “primary line of inquiry,” asserting that there is no broader risk to the public. Authorities received a call at 7:16 am on Wednesday after the three bodies were found at the 48-bed facility located on Ulwell Road. Families of the deceased have been notified, and the coroner has been informed.
Dixey stated, “Seven individuals have been transported to the hospital as a precaution, and residents have been evacuated. The fatalities are being treated as unexplained, and we are collaborating with partner agencies to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Dorset council noted that many of the residents had significant care needs. Rev Jo Levasier, vicar at All Saints Church where the evacuated residents were housed, remarked on the distress experienced by many. She recounted, “I received a call at 7:45 am from the care home requesting assistance to open our building. About thirty minutes later, people began to arrive. Some were on stretchers, others in wheelchairs. We’ve set up several beds, and many residents appear confused.”
The local community responded enthusiastically by providing blankets, food, tea, and coffee. Volunteers from a local school also came to lend their support. Levasier expressed hope that all residents would be relocated by evening but noted uncertainty about their future as they cannot return to the care home.
Salama Ghounaim, 34, who works in the care home’s kitchen, shared that the decision was made to evacuate all residents to the church, highlighting the advanced age of the inhabitants, with some nearing 100 years old. Charlotte Harris, a former activities coordinator at the home, described witnessing the evacuation process, emphasizing the urgency and care needed for residents with dementia.
The Gainsborough care home, operated by Agincare, a family-owned business established in 1986, employs around 4,000 individuals across more than 90 sites in England. A spokesperson for the home assured that resident wellbeing is the utmost priority, and they are collaborating with local authorities to facilitate a safe return for residents.
In a 2021 report, the Care Quality Commission rated the home as “good,” stating that risks within the environment were effectively managed. Residents have previously enjoyed community activities and events, as showcased on the care home’s Facebook page.
Carbon monoxide leads to approximately 60 fatalities and 200 hospital admissions annually in the UK, according to West Yorkshire fire service statistics.
