Families of patients who suffered a shocking catalogue of abuse and malpractice at the former Budock Hospital in Falmouth are to receive a share of more than £1.4 million in compensation, five years after the scandal was uncovered.

The case dates back to 2006, when a damning report forced the resignation of three senior officials and unreserved apologies from health leaders.

The payout comes after a group of families affected by the scandal began a group litigation order against the current trust’s predecessor, the Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust, which ran the specialist hospital catering for people with learning disabilities.

An independent investigation launched into working practices at the hospital uncovered allegations of sexual abuse, along with instances of physical, emotional and medical abuse.

Now, five years on, 118 families have been told they will receive a payout in settlement.

  • The full story will appear in tomorrow's Packet.