A care home worker has been accused of using a 95-year-old resident’s bank card to withdraw money without permission, while the resident was bedridden. Lisa-Marie Edwards, who worked as a senior carer at Snowdon Care Home in Llanberis from February 2020 until January 2023, allegedly withdrew money from the resident’s account over a period of time. The victim had been residing at the care home since May 2021, receiving 24-hour support due to mobility issues and having no family nearby.
During a hearing by a Social Care Wales fitness to practise panel, it was revealed that typically, residents’ finances are managed by their next of kin, and they are advised to store money securely. However, the resident in this case chose to keep her purse and bank cards in her handbag. Subsequently, Edwards reportedly obtained a new card and PIN number for the resident, storing the PIN in a filing cabinet only accessible by her and the manager. The resident later discovered numerous unauthorised ATM withdrawals on her bank statement, including withdrawals from a local Spar shop and supermarkets in Bangor.
Suspicion arose as the resident was physically unable to visit ATMs due to being bed bound. The police were notified, leading to the suspension of the bank card. Investigations indicated that the withdrawals made at the Spar shop coincided with times when Edwards was reportedly collecting newspapers for residents. Moreover, withdrawals from the supermarkets occurred when Edwards was off work due to illness. Cheryl Butler, the responsible individual at the care home, mentioned that Edwards had expressed financial difficulties during a period of sickness.
The panel was informed that Edwards, residing near Bangor, faces allegations of using the resident’s bank card without consent for cash withdrawals both during work hours and while absent due to sickness. The hearing is ongoing, with further proceedings expected. The manager of Snowdon Care Home at the time, Katrina Sweetser-Hawkes, stated that Edwards was the next most senior staff member in her absence, having responsibilities such as organising shifts and collecting newspapers.
The case has raised concerns about safeguarding vulnerable residents in care homes and the importance of stringent financial monitoring systems. The alleged misuse of the elderly resident’s bank card highlights the need for enhanced security measures and oversight within care facilities. The incident serves as a reminder of the duty of care owed to vulnerable individuals in such settings.
The implications of financial abuse in care homes underscore the necessity for robust regulatory frameworks and vigilant supervision to prevent exploitation. The ongoing investigation into the misconduct underscores the significance of addressing malpractice promptly and ensuring accountability. Such incidents necessitate swift action to uphold the dignity and well-being of elderly residents in care environments.
The allegations facing Lisa-Marie Edwards serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of elderly individuals in care settings and the imperative to maintain stringent ethical standards. The proceedings shed light on the importance of instating comprehensive safeguards to protect residents and uphold their rights. The case underscores the significance of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in caregiving roles within the healthcare sector.