Crisis in Care: Yorkshire Post investigation reveals an 'underestimated' death toll and DIY goggles being used as PPE

Evidence is mounting of a whole host of problems during the pandemic, including concerns about improper care for elderly people and worries about how care homes will be paid for as councils may be forced to tip into emergency funds.

A “flood” of complaints is likely to occur as the region recovers, with a specialist team on standby at the social care ombudsman’s office.

Many people have praised the region’s hard working carers, who have made enormous sacrifices to look after elderly people during the pandemic.

Families in Yorkshire have been incredibly grateful for the support from carers, many of whom have gone the extra mile to keep their families safe.

However, there is a great deal of concern that the pandemic is more widespread than the figures show.

The Yorkshire Post’s investigation revealed:

- Huge budget gaps for council social care funding

- “Deep concern” from human rights organisations about the treatment of the elderly at some care homes

- Fears that the death toll is underestimated as bereaved families call for an inquiry into care home deaths

- An expected “flood” of complaints about care homes

- The realities of life as a home carer under lockdown and the enormous sacrifices made by the region’s carers

- The recruitment crisis facing the care sector

- How care homes have shown “incredible compassion” for residents

Read our investigation here.