An Angus care worker at a council-run home for the elderly turned up to work under the influence of alcohol on Christmas Day night, it has emerged.
Deborah Reid was the subject of a probe by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) following the incident at Seaton Grove in Arbroath 18 months ago, and has been sanctioned by the standards body.
A warning will be placed on the social care officer’s registration for two years, while Ms Reid must write a reflective essay on how such actions could impact on her colleagues and trust in their service.
A meeting of the SSSC considered a charge that Ms Reid presented herself under the influence of alcohol at the start of her 10pm shift on December 25 2013.
She resumed work the next day and accepted the charge before the SSSC hearing commenced.
The behaviour was judged to be misconduct as vulnerable adults must expect workers to care for them while judgment and ability to practise competently and safely is unimpaired.
The SSSC commented: “By reporting for duty at 10pm at Seaton Grove on 25 December 2013, the registrant was unable or there was a risk that she was unable to perform required duties to required standards of competence, alertness, vigilance and safety, thus placing service users, colleagues and others at risk of harm.
“The registrant breached the confidence and trust placed in her as a social service worker.
“The registrant was unable to remain on shift and perform duties including administration of medication,” the SSSC said.
The council took several positive factors into account, and noted there were no concerns about Ms Reid’s practice or conduct since, or before the incident.
Inspectors noted: “She has shown insight and awareness throughout.
“This is an isolated incident and there are no other concerns indicated.
“There was no harm to service users she was asked to leave and go home.”
Angus Council did not comment.
Ms Reid could not be reached for comment.