Carer at Aberdeen home hit by suspected Covid-19 deaths sacked

The individual continued to turn up for work despite knowing his immediate family were self-isolating with symptoms.

Kingswells Care Home
Author: Callum ClarkPublished 22nd Apr 2020

A carer who worked at an Aberdeen care home struck by six suspected covid-19 deaths has been sacked for failing to self-isolate.

The man continued to turn up at Kingswells Care Home despite knowing his immediate family was displaying symptoms of the virus.

Aberdeen Nursing Agency, the firm responsible for hiring the staff member said they were dismissed immediately.

A spokeperson said: " We can confirm a carer, employed by us, continued to work whilst knowing that his immediate family were in self-isolation, with COVID-19 symptoms.

"The carer did not report their situation, to either Aberdeen Nursing Agency or the Care Home

"On the day in question, the carer was placed at Kingswells Care Home, and was immediately removed as soon as we became aware of the situation.  

"As this individual did not follow the clear Government guidelines, in regard to social distancing and self-isolation, they were immediately dismissed.

I can confirm that while this individual should have been following the Government guidelines, they have not contracted COVID-19, to date.

This has been a huge disappointment to Aberdeen Nursing Agency and we feel that this does not fairly represent the hundreds of Care staff on the frontline who are continuing to deliver care to the most vulnerable in our society, whilst putting themselves at risk but obeying the clear government guidelines regarding social distancing and self-isolation."

The home is run by Bon Accord Care, on behalf of Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnsership.

ACHSCP Chief Officer Sandra MacLeod said: “Aberdeen City Health & Social Care Partnership expects all providers to strictly comply with regulatory and professional policy and process for all staff working within care homes and community settings.

"All staff – whether employed directly by us, our partner organisations or through an agency – must adhere to all government guidelines around Covid-19.

"We will take any and all appropriate action where necessary to ensure compliance.”

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