A north-east care home has been branded “disgusting” after offering to “reimburse” a daughter for destroying the personal items of her late mother.
St Modans Care Home staff in Fraserburgh had promised the family of Alison McKenzie, 61, that they would pack and return her things, following her death in October.
However, instead of getting back all her mum’s belongings, Emma McKenzie was distraught when she only received a few CDs, blankets and photos.
Everything else was binned.
At the time, Miss McKenzie, 26, described the news as resembling a “kick in the teeth”.
Her mother had been in the home for 10 years and was suffering from Lewy body disease, which caused a gradual decline in cognitive abilities, prior to her death in October.
Items missing from her belongings included mementos, clothing and a small football she used to play with her grandson whenever he visited.
Meallmore has offered an apology for the incident and sent Miss McKenzie a copy of its report on the matter.
The company has admitted that management failed to “communicate effectively”.
It added: “Although this has appeared to occur with no malicious intent, the disposal of the contents from the room without permission or direct instruction was unacceptable.”
The firm will now introduce a named person to be responsible for liaising with families going forward.
The report concluded: “The company offers a full and sincere apology for this, and acknowledges that, whilst it cannot replace the sentimental attachment of items, is willing to provide monetary reimbursements for disposed-of articles.”
However, last night, Miss McKenzie responded the firm’s money would do nothing to “solve” her grief.
She added: “The fact that they’re offering to reimburse me is just disgusting – to think that would solve anything.”
A spokesman for the home had previously “wholeheartedly” apologised to Miss McKenzie.
He said: “We know how painful the loss of a loved one can be and supporting a family at this difficult time is one of our top priorities.”