Disabled Woman Dies After Council Cuts Off All Care Just Days Before Christmas
Anne Savidge, 64, a severely disabled former midwife from Southsea, tragically died after Portsmouth City Council stopped her care from 18 agencies – leaving her isolated and helpless in her own home.
Care Cut Over ‘Verbal Abuse’ Claims
On December 10th, Anne’s support was abruptly halted amid accusations she had ‘verbally abused’ care staff. Just six days later, she was rushed to QA Hospital from her flat in Brandon Court, where she passed away on December 21st.
Friend Blasts Council for Ignoring Her Suffering
The heartbreaking details emerged thanks to disability campaigner Geoff Holt, a close friend of Anne’s. At a tense council meeting, Holt accused Portsmouth City Council of having no backup plan for Anne’s care.
“Anne sat there, mostly in her wheelchair, for five days, in pain, her bladder tumour oozing blood on her clothes, no food, too scared to drink because she might wet herself, and not even having her hands and face washed,” Holt revealed. “I am in no doubt whatsoever Anne’s lack of care over that period was to blame.”
Holt also blasted Solent NHS Trust for ignoring his repeated pleas for help, calling their silence “disgraceful” given Anne’s vulnerability.
MP Steps In As Investigation Launched
Portsmouth South Labour MP Stephen Morgan promised to support Holt in exposing the shocking neglect Anne suffered before her death. Portsmouth City Council confirmed an investigation is now underway, led by chief executive David Williams.
“The Adult Social Care team at Portsmouth City Council works with some of the city’s most vulnerable,” a council spokeswoman said. “It would be inappropriate to comment until the investigation is complete and findings are published.”
