An HC-One care home in Scotland has been fined £400,000 following the death of a resident.

HC-One pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations Section 3(1) and Section 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on 22 February following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive.

Ninety-five year-old Susan Greens was found in an external courtyard at Springfield Bank Care Home in in Bonnyrigg near Edinburgh on 16 December 2021 after she had fallen unsupervised.

She had spent up to an hour and a half outside before staff came to her aid.

Mrs Greens was admitted to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and sadly died in hospital two days later.

HSE inspector Kerry Cringan said: “This error cost a vulnerable old lady her life – families think that their loved ones will be safe in care.

“This was tragic and wholly avoidable. Had the doors been kept locked at night or had there been a system where staff would be told if the doors to the courtyard had been opened, the accident could have been avoided.”

A spokesperson for HC-One said: “Our heartfelt condolences and sincere apologies are with the family and loved ones of Ms Greens, who was a much loved member of our home.

“We are clear that this tragedy should never have occurred and that we absolutely must learn lessons from it. Following the accident in 2021, we comprehensively reviewed the safety and security of all our homes. Colleagues have received additional training around the themes identified in this case, new door alarms have been fitted to alert colleagues when an external door is opened so appropriate checks can be completed, and we have introduced additional monitoring and supervision practices.

“While we know that we cannot change what happened to Mrs Greens, we hope the hearing and the comprehensive action we’ve taken will bring her family a sense of closure.”