Council apology after Meals on Wheels worker filmed refusing to get resident a drink

The chief executive of Caerphilly County Borough Council has apologised after a Meals on Wheels worker was filmed refusing to get a resident a drink.

The video, taken on December 23, was posted on Facebook by the resident’s grandson Lewis Jones.

In his public post online he said: “Meals on wheels refusing my grandmother a drink…The cameras are not hidden and it is clearly displayed on the front door that there is CCTV in the flat.

“This is a phone call to her supervisor about what to do instead of make (sic) her a drink. I understand it’s not a requirement but this is not acceptable as she was upset after overhearing the conversation.”

The Meals on Wheels worker can be heard complaining to her supervisor on the phone.

She says: “I’m not supposed to be doing all this, am I?”

Her supervisor replies: “Well no, not unless she’s giving you f*****g £50 for Christmas.”

Christina Harrhy, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s chief executive said: “This behaviour is completely unacceptable and I want to assure our residents that this is an isolated incident and does not reflect the high quality service provision we offer our communities.

“I wish to offer my sincere apologies to Mrs McTighe and her family for the distress caused. I would also like to offer my personal assurance that this incident will be addressed promptly and in accordance with council policies and procedures.
“Senior officers will make contact with Mrs McTighe to offer her a personal apology and we will also seek to discuss her needs and offer her appropriate support.”

Caerphilly Observer has contacted Mrs McTighe’s grandson for further information.