In response to a BBC Panorama programme that uncovered evidence of abuse and mistreatment of vulnerable adults at Whorlton Hall, a specialist hospital in County Durham, Affinity Trust chief executive Leo Sowerby said:

“The horrific scenes shown on last night’s Panorama are an indictment not only of the staff involved, but also of the management culture, and an inspection regime that failed to see what was going on.

“Eight years after Winterbourne View, people with learning disabilities and autism are still being failed by the system set up to protect them.

“The evidence of abuse uncovered at Whorlton Hall again highlights the failure to fully implement the Transforming Care programme, with far too many people remaining in secure units.

“Our own experience shows that, with the right support, people can be better supported in the community, and be afforded the basic dignity and respect lacking at Whorlton Hall.”