Patient safety a priority after man disappears, hospital insists

Police launched a search after David Shimwell, 77, went missing from the Calow hospital at about midday last Wednesday.

Mr Shimwell, who was wearing pyjamas and slippers at the time, was found in Rowsley in the evening.

A spokesman for Chesterfield Royal Hospital said: “We have robust processes in place to keep patients safe in hospital. From time to time an independent patient, capable of making their own decisions, opts to leave.

“Mr Shinwell’s absence from the ward was dealt with quickly and appropriately – and his family encouraged him to return to hospital to continue his care and treatment.”

A Derbyshire policeadded: “We would like to thank everyone who helped officers in their search.”