Dorset care home fined £70,000 for fire safety failings after resident's death
Portelet Manor Limited admitted the charge at Poole Magistrates' Court
Portelet Manor Limited has been fined £70,000 due to fire safety failings discovered after the death of a vulnerable resident at Portelet Manor care home in Boscombe, Dorset.
The company pleaded guilty to a charge at Poole Magistrates’ Court on 31st March, admitting to failing to implement appropriate fire safety measures as per the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
In addition to the fine, Portelet Manor Limited was ordered to pay £22,000 in costs and a £2,000 victim surcharge.
The incident involved a resident who suffered significant burns while smoking at the designated area on 19th June 2023 and later died in hospital.
An investigation was initiated by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, despite the fire service not being called to the original incident.
Tom Huntley, Fire Safety Prosecution Manager for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, expressed condolences to the deceased's loved ones and emphasised the importance of public safety.
"The court’s finding should serve as a clear message to everyone in Dorset and Wiltshire about the importance of fire safety," Huntley said.
He further stated that the service supports businesses in ensuring public safety and will pursue prosecutions when legal requirements are not met.
Huntley remarked, "This case highlights the very serious consequences of failures in fire safety management."
A spokesperson for Portelet Manor Limited said in a statement:
"We are deeply saddened by the circumstances of this case and extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual involved. We fully recognise the seriousness of the findings and accept that, on this occasion, our standards fell short of what is expected
"We have already taken meaningful steps to strengthen our practices and oversight. This includes a comprehensive programme of improvements across staffing, training, and operational procedures to ensure the highest levels of care are consistently delivered.
I"n addition, we are currently undertaking a significant refurbishment of the home. This investment is designed to enhance both the quality of care and the physical environment, ensuring that all residents benefit from modern, safe, and comfortable surroundings that support their wellbeing.
"We remain fully committed to working with all relevant authorities and regulators, and to rebuilding trust through demonstrable improvements in the care we provide."