Aberdeen dementia care for Ken Maitland was ‘best possible’ despite 88 workers

An Aberdeen dementia sufferer received the best possible care despite being looked after by nearly 90 different care workers over a 12-month period, an investigation has found.

Jeanette Maitland said the different people sent by agencies working for Aberdeen’s social work department contravened her husband Ken’s dignity.

Mr Maitland died from a dementia-related illness on 12 May aged 72.

Aberdeen City Council admitted 88 carers was “unacceptably high”.

Chief executive Valerie Watts said: “Aberdeen City Council did not provide the continuity of care we would wish for our service users but I am satisfied that Mr Maitland received the best care that was possible in difficult circumstances.

“Mr Maitland had a high level of care needs and received visits from two carers, four times a day, five days a week, and three visits a day on the two remaining days of the week. A range of additional services were provided.

“This intensive care package was maintained despite Aberdeen City Council experiencing frequent shortages in the availability of care staff.

“I am satisfied, as confirmed by Mrs Maitland, that the quality of care provided was good.”

She added: “The council regrets and apologises for any distress caused to Mr and Mrs Maitland.

“We are looking at solutions to recruitment and capacity issues that might help us to avoid such situations in the future.”