KAREN LAIRD CAIB FROM CARNOUSTIE STRUCK OFF FOR ABUSIVE BEHAVIOR TOWARD ELDERLY RESIDENTS

Karen Laird (Craib), a former carer based in Carnoustie, faced professional disqualification following a series of troubling incidents involving elderly residents under her care. The disciplinary action was taken after she was found to have engaged in inappropriate and disrespectful conduct towards the vulnerable individuals she was supposed to protect and support.

According to reports, Laird was heard using offensive language and swearing at an elderly resident, an act that demonstrated a clear lack of professionalism and compassion. Her behavior extended beyond verbal abuse, as she also made derogatory remarks about the care home itself, referring to it as a ‘loony bin,’ which is considered highly inappropriate and disrespectful towards both the residents and the facility.

In addition to her verbal misconduct, Laird was involved in physically removing two elderly residents from their armchairs. The residents, described as frail older adults, did not wish to leave their seats voluntarily, possibly due to their physical limitations or discomfort. Despite their reluctance, Laird forcibly pulled a male and a female resident from their chairs, an act that raises serious concerns about her treatment of vulnerable individuals and her adherence to proper care standards.

The incidents drew significant attention from regulatory authorities, leading to her being struck off from her professional register. This disciplinary measure effectively bans her from working in caregiving roles within regulated settings, aiming to protect the dignity and well-being of elderly residents in care homes across Scotland, including those in Carnoustie where she was employed.