Darlington MP Lola McEvoy has demanded an urgent investigation after receiving “concerning reports” that patients at the hospital had been unable to shower for days due to water contamination caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, known as CPE (Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae).

The County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust, who run the hospital, has called the measures ‘precautionary’ and has committed to improvements that will bring “full use” back to the hospital soon.

Ms McEvoy has written to the health secretary Wes Streeting, as well as top bosses at the County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust (CDDFT), and the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, to warn of patients “suffering a lack of dignity” after having to clean themselves with wipes.

A sign at Darlington Memorial Hospital (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

In her letter, sent on Monday (October 27), Ms McEvoy added: “I believe an NHS patient should not be denied access to a shower when they need one, and I know you will share my concern.”

The issue echoes a similar incident reported in 2024, when a Newton Aycliffe woman spent four days without a shower at the same hospital after an outbreak of CPE in the water system.

At that time, the trust confirmed that infection-control measures, including sealing off sinks and restricting showers, were taken in line with national guidance to protect vulnerable patients.

Concerns have been raised about CPE at the hospital (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

According to health experts, CPE can be dangerous for those with weakened immune systems because it is resistant to antibiotics.

The bacteria can live in drainpipes, and hospitals sometimes limit access to water outlets to prevent their spread.

Cllr Bryony Holroyd, the Green Party’s shadow cabinet member for Health and Housing at Darlington Borough Council, said the latest reports showed a “deeply worrying decline” in patient care.

“I am deeply concerned to hear that patient care at our hospital has sunk to the level where people are being denied basic hygiene such as showers and baths,” she said.

The front of Darlington Memorial Hospital (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

“Patients being left with the only option of using body wipes is degrading and totally unacceptable.”

Cllr Holroyd added that sinks had been sealed off with plastic bags, limiting handwashing for both patients and staff, and blamed years of NHS underfunding for “outdated and unsustainable facilities”.

According to a forthcoming report, which will be presented to Darlington Borough Council on Wednesday (October 29), Darlington Memorial has faced a significant CPE outbreak since January 2023, with 891 cases reported.

Infection-control audits, ward refurbishments, and “waterless bathing” procedures were introduced.

Ambulances outside Darlington Memorial Hospital (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Although case numbers have since declined, the hospital remains under post-outbreak surveillance and questions over patient dignity remain unresolved, according to the town’s MP and councillors.

The County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust called the measures “purely precautionary”.

A spokesperson from the Trust said: “Patient safety is always our top priority. We understand how important it is for patients to feel comfortable and maintain their dignity while in our care.

“Following national guidance and in collaboration with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), we have introduced additional infection prevention measures on a small number of wards at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

“These measures are purely precautionary and are designed to minimise any potential risk linked to bacteria that can sometimes be found in hospital drainage systems.

“In these areas, patients are supported to maintain their personal hygiene using specialist wipes which are gentle on the skin and can be warmed for comfort.

“We understand that this can be frustrating, and we appreciate our patients’ understanding while this essential work takes place.

“We continue to work closely with national experts and our estates teams to complete improvement work and return these facilities to full use as soon as possible.”