Tragedy as woman, 78, dies after 'falling from window' at care home

Detectives are investigating after an elderly woman died in a freak "tragic accident" falling from a care home window. Emergency services were called out to Berrycroft Manor care home, in Romiley, Stockport, in Greater Manchester, at around 7.30am on Monday morning (September 29).

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) says a 78-year-old woman was taken to hospital following a fall, where she sadly died later in the day. The force said they are supporting the woman's family. Berrycroft Manor's manager described the incident as a "tragic accident" and confirmed an investigation was underway.

Michael Blissett, the home manager at Berrycroft Manor, said: "This was a tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are very much with the family. We extend our heartfelt condolences to them.

"Everyone here is shocked and saddened by the accident. Investigations are still continuing as to exactly how this has happened.

"Safety here is paramount and we are working with HSE [Health and Safety Executive] and CQC to ensure this never happens again."

Police said they were working to establish the full circumstances of her death, but it is understood the woman fell from a bedroom window.

A GMP spokesperson added: "Shortly after 7.30am yesterday (September 29), officers responded to reports of a concern for the welfare of a woman following a fall at a care home on Berrycroft Lane, Stockport.

"Emergency services attended but sadly, a 78-year-old woman died from her injuries in hospital later that day.

"Her family are currently being supported. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of her death."

The CQC last inspected the care home in September 2024, when it gave the home a rating of 'good'.

The regulator says it has spoken to Berrycroft Manor and GMP about Monday's tragic incident.

A CQC spokesperson said: "CQC has been made aware of the death of a resident at Berrycroft Manor in Stockport, and our condolences are with the family at this sad time.

"We are in close contact with the home and police as they look into the circumstances around this incident, so we can understand if there is any regulatory action that needs taken to ensure people are receiving safe care.

"CQC's priority, at all times, is the health and wellbeing of people using health and social care services, and all information we receive informs our monitoring of services and future inspections.

"We'd encourage anyone who has concerns about a health and social care service to let us know. This can be done by emailing enquiries@cqc.org.uk or via our customer service centre on 03000 616161."