‘I don’t want others failed after gran’s death’

When Pearl Henderson developed end-stage dementia, her family hoped she would have a “peaceful” death, but they say the reality was very different.

The 98-year-old, from Bradford, died a week after falling out bed at home for the sixth time after her NHS-funded care was stopped and the local authority took over.

Her granddaughter, Kirstie Lumley, has called for change and said they were “failed” by a system that meant Pearl’s final days were “physically and emotionally” traumatic.

The NHS and Bradford Council said they were unable to comment on individual cases but they “work closely together” to ensure those eligible for care and support receive services “appropriate to their needs”.

In June 2023, Pearl was discharged from hospital following a urinary tract infection and awarded NHS fast track continuing healthcare.

The funding provides quick access to care for patients who are “rapidly deteriorating” and may be “entering a terminal phase of life.”

Pearl was able to receive 86 hours of care per week, which the family topped up with an extra 14 hours paid privately.

It meant she could stay at home and have someone to sit with her overnight when she would often become confused and distressed.

But last summer, following a review, the family was told the funding would be withdrawn on 1 August because her needs were no longer primarily health-related.