Families express outrage over inadequate response to power cut at Eadar Glinn.
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Residents of Eadar Glinn care home in Oban experienced a harrowing ordeal during a recent power outage caused by Storm Eowyn. Families of the residents expressed their outrage over the lack of a contingency plan, which left vulnerable individuals without essential services for an extended period.
The power cut lasted from Friday afternoon until Saturday morning, leaving residents without heating, lighting, and access to the lift.
Families voice concerns over care home management
One family member, who wished to remain anonymous, described the distressing situation, stating that her relative was “frozen” and confused due to the sudden loss of power.
She criticized the care home for having only temporary backup lighting for four hours and no plan to keep residents warm. “We all knew the storm was on its way, and we were all told to make plans,” she said, highlighting the irony of the situation.
The family member recounted how at least one resident with dementia had to be relocated to another room because the lift was inoperable. “It was a complete disaster,” she added, commending the staff for their efforts under such challenging conditions. “Without them, it would have been much worse.”
Financial implications and accountability
Families are understandably frustrated, especially considering the high fees associated with care at Eadar Glinn, which amount to £1,600 per week. “There should be a generator just for the home,” the family member insisted. “It is shocking, even for working conditions for staff.” Residents were provided with torches, but navigating the dark proved difficult, particularly for those needing assistance with basic needs.
Another relative expressed concern for her mother, stating that the lack of backup power had worsened her health and increased her anxiety. “We pay a substantial amount of money to make sure she is well cared for,” she lamented, emphasizing the need for accountability from Argyll and Bute Council.
Community response and future actions
The situation was brought to the attention of the Oban Community Council, where Neil MacIntyre highlighted the urgent need for improvements at Eadar Glinn. “There should be a backup generator at the care home. These are the people who need to be cared for,” he stated, echoing the sentiments of many concerned families.
In response to the incident, a spokesman for Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership acknowledged the issues faced by residents during the power outage. “We would like to thank the staff at the home for putting plans in place very quickly to ensure that the residents were cared for and kept as comfortable as possible,” he said. The spokesperson also apologized to residents and their families, assuring them that a review of resilience plans would be conducted to prevent similar situations in the future.
