Suspended care worker from Harborough keeps her job

The photo that caused an internet storm - and the suspension of the care worker. She has since been told she can keep her job.

A carer from Market Harborough who was suspended after a photo of her smoking next to a wheelchair user loaded with shopping bags caused an internet storm has kept her job.

Mencap originally said that it was “appalled” by the photo, adding that it fell well below their high standards.

But after an internal hearing, Mencap said: “That while the conduct of our colleague fell well short of what we would expect in this instance, it did not warrant dismissal.”

Steve Baker, the charity’s regional director of services, added: “Central to our decision were the statements and wishes of the person we support and his family.

“The photograph painted a very misleading picture of what was happening.

“On that day, they had been out shopping for some new clothes. He likes to be able to see his shopping and asked to have his bags in front of him.”

The carer has received “serious disciplinary action”.

The family of the man are believed to have shown support to the carer and are glad she was not sacked.