There is no place for dishonest staff

Editor News editor Assistant news editor The incidents of theft by carer Nicola Smyth (Woman stole from elderly people she was caring for, KM November 4, page 7) were identified and swift action was taken. Working alongside Kent Police ensuring all customers were safeguarded.

We took all required regulatory steps including informing the Care Quality Commission.

Bluebird Care operates within extremely high regulatory standards.

All employees are rigorously checked and routinely supervised to ensure we deliver the very highest standards of care.

Having a full commitment and a duty of care it is of paramount importance to protect and safeguard both our staff and customers.

To achieve this we adhere to Bluebird Care’s clear and stringent policies and procedures. We are also committed and accountable to the regulatory requirements of the Care Quality Commission and the local authority for safeguarding.

Bluebird Care Maidstone has cared for thousands of customers in the local area since February 2010 and the ex-employee is not representative of the brilliant work our care workers do on a day-to day basis for our customers. Our care workers, exceptional in every way, are dedicated, caring and highly skilled.

This matter is extremely rare and will not be tolerated by Bluebird Care. We remain working closely with the police to continue to fully co-operate with their investigation and also with the Kent County Council Safeguarding Team.

We continue to provide the very best care services and this was recognised at our last inspection in September 2016 when the inspector rated our Maidstone office as overall Good. Bobby Pawar, Director, Bluebird Care, Maidstone