SLC say investigation found no issues with level of care

Ruth is being supported by Care Campaign For The Vulnerable (CCTV) in her fight for answers.

Founder Jayne Connery said: “It’s always a tragedy losing a loved one, but it’s so much worse when you suspect they did not get the care they deserved. We want to help Ruth and her family get answers to their questions about the care given to her mum.

“Care home residents are some of society’s most vulnerable people. It’s clear we should be doing more to protect them and that’s why we’re campaigning for an independent inquiry to identify any failings and, where found, take steps to put them right.”

However, South Lanarkshire Council say following a full investigation “no issues” were found with the level of care and that two days before the 94-year-old’s death she was visited by medical staff who reported no concerns about her health.

Director of Health and Social Care, Val de Souza, said: “Everyone at Meldrum Gardens was very saddened by Mrs Gibson’s death.

“She was a very well-liked resident and all our thoughts and condolences go to her family – indeed, these were passed on at the time of her death. We are clear that she received very good care there.

“Her health care was overseen by her GP and other health and social care professionals.

“Although Mrs Gibson tested positive for COVID shortly before she died, this was a precautionary test following the positive result of a member of staff.

“The national advice at the time was that care home residents should only be subjected to testing, which is quite invasive, if necessary.

“Mrs Gibson was 94, and despite her positive COVID result, her death was unexpected – indeed, just two days earlier she was visited by medical staff who reported no concerns about her health.

“Following a complaint by the family, a full investigation was carried out in line with the Social Work Resources Complaints Handling Procedure. This found no issues with the level of care provided.

“The council also met with the family and Care Campaign for the Vulnerable to discuss their concerns.”

A spokesperson for the Care Inspectorate said: “A concern has been raised with us about this care service and we are carefully considering all information we have been given.”