Liz Kendall MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Care and Older People, said:

“I welcome the sentences handed down today by Preston Crown Court. It is completely unacceptable for any elderly or disabled person to be abused in the way that residents at Hillcroft suffered.

“Responsibility for care standards lies with those who provide and commission care, and with the national regulator. We must ensure the Care Bill currently going through Parliament contains the best possible safeguards so that abuse like this is prevented from happening, and families are confident their loved ones are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”