UK Hotel Malnutrition: Mears Accused of Neglect

A harrowing experience unfolded for an asylum-seeking family in a Belfast hotel, where a teenage daughter suffered a severe health decline due to inadequate food provisions. The mother alleges that the accommodation provided by Mears was unclean and that her daughter, who requires special meals due to complex needs and uses a wheelchair, was unable to eat the standard food offered. This led to a diagnosis of malnutrition after a five-month wait for an occupational health assessment to address her dietary needs.

The situation escalated as the daughter's health worsened, culminating in a hospital stay in intensive care, which her mother believes was linked to malnourishment. The mother recounts instances where requested groceries, like eggs and milk, were not provided, despite the company reportedly generating significant profits. She voiced profound sadness and anger over the family's struggle to obtain basic necessities for her children during this difficult period.

Mears has stated that all accommodation is approved and inspected by the Home Office, with high satisfaction levels reported in their surveys. The company maintains that its menus meet NHS nutritional standards and that dietary requirements are recorded. They also claim that overall feedback on food has been positive, and they consider all comments and requests made by residents.