No criminal charges for Barnsley care workers arrested after resident pictured upside down

Between 22 and 25 June seven women who work at the Cherry Trees home were arrested on suspicion of ill treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker after the pictures were posted on social media.

One of the images showed 83-year-old Shirley Duffy, who lived at the home before her death in April following an illness relating to cancer, placed upside down in a chair.

Shirley’s granddaughter Leanne Lunn told BBC News: “That picture is absolutely heartbreaking and it's the last image we've ever had of our nanna.”

On Friday a South Yorkshire Police spokesperson confirmed no further police action will be taken against the staff members because of a lack of evidence.

They said: “Although the photos are both inappropriate and unprofessional, extensive enquiries conducted by our officers found that there is not sufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution.

“All families involved have continually been kept updated and have now been informed of the outcome.”

The carers remain suspended from work, police said, and the matter will continue to be investigated by the care provider, Barnsley Council, and the Independent Care Home Inspectors CQC.

Barnsley Council stopped admitting new residents to the home following the arrests and said the behaviour would not be tolerated.

A CQC spokesperson said they will “continue to work with Barnsley Council to ensure people are safe and well cared for at the home.”

The Star has contacted Barnsley Council for comment.