Protecting the Voiceless, Safeguarding Vulnerable Care Home Residents

The case of David Shorrock, a care worker from Great Harwood, is deeply unsettling. In July 2023, Shorrock was caught on CCTV sexually assaulting a non-verbal dementia patient at a residential care home in Hyndburn, Lancashire. The victim, an elderly woman with advanced dementia could not speak, defend herself, or tell anyone what had happened.

The abuse only came to light when a colleague witnessed the incident on camera and took immediate action. Without that, it may have gone unnoticed and begs the question, has this occurred previously? This case is a disturbing reminder of just how vulnerable some care home residents are—and how crucial it is for staff to speak up when they see something wrong.

A Serious Breach of Trust

Shorrock, 53, who pleaded not guilty, was convicted after a trial at Preston Crown Court and sentenced to nine months in prison. He has also been placed on the sex offenders register for life. This sentence seems very low for such an egregious breach of trust.

Detective Constable Liam Jarman, from Lancashire Police’s RASSO team, summed it up:

“Shorrock abused his trusted position in the most serious and despicable way… He targeted a woman who he knew was vulnerable and would not be able to defend herself.”

It’s concerning to think that someone entrusted with care could exploit that role for such harm. It’s also a reminder of why safeguarding must always be at the heart of everything in a care setting.

We All Have a Role to Play

This case is an alarming example of how vulnerable care home residents can be, and how much trust we place in those who look after them.

While controversial in some settings due to privacy concerns, CCTV can be instrumental in identifying abuse, especially in care homes where residents cannot speak up.

The courage and decisiveness of the colleague who intervened cannot be overstated. In care environments, staff are often the first—and sometimes only—line of defence for those who are unable to advocate for themselves.

That’s why policies and ongoing training are non-negotiable in any care setting

At Bolt Burdon Kemp we are commented to supporting survivors of abuse in seeking justice, whether the abuse occurred in a care home setting, by someone in a position of trust or elsewhere, our Abuse team is here to ensure voices are heard and to help individuals access the support and compensation they deserve.