MICHAEL SPRUNT ABUSES DEMENTIA PATIENT AT BARROGIL HOUSE IN DUNDEE

The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) has taken decisive disciplinary measures against Michael Sprunt, a carer employed at Barrogil House, located in Cluny near Kirkcaldy. The action follows a disturbing investigation into allegations of repeated physical and verbal abuse directed at Janette Ritchie, a vulnerable dementia patient under his care, during the months of May and June 2024.

According to the findings, Sprunt engaged in a pattern of degrading and demeaning conduct that severely compromised the dignity and well-being of Ms. Ritchie. The investigation uncovered numerous instances where Sprunt's behavior was not only unprofessional but also deeply troubling, involving mocking noises, inappropriate remarks, and the use of excessive force. Witnesses and evidence indicated that Sprunt's treatment of Ms. Ritchie was characterized by a lack of compassion and respect, raising serious concerns about his attitude towards vulnerable individuals.

Specific incidents detailed in the report include a particularly distressing episode where Sprunt was observed laughing while assisting Ms. Ritchie to the bathroom, an act that was deemed highly inappropriate and disrespectful. Further, he was reported to have asked her questions sarcastically, undermining her dignity. On another occasion, he was seen pulling up her pyjama bottoms while laughing, an act that demonstrated a lack of sensitivity and professionalism. The most alarming incident occurred on June 7, when Sprunt allegedly pushed and pulled Ms. Ritchie with excessive force, standing over her in an aggressive manner and making threatening comments. Such actions are considered serious breaches of care standards and reflect a concerning attitude towards the safety of vulnerable residents.

The SSSC concluded that Sprunt's conduct displayed an extremely troubling attitude towards individuals in a fragile state, constituting a grave abuse of trust and authority. As a consequence, he has been permanently barred from working within the care sector, effectively striking him off the register. The investigation also revealed additional disturbing behaviors, including supporting Ms. Ritchie in disrespectful ways such as shaking her bed, waving a blanket around her, and covering her face with a blanket while mockingly saying, 'Rest in peace.' He was also reported to have mocked her noises, further illustrating a pattern of demeaning treatment.

The watchdog's report emphasized the fundamental right of vulnerable individuals and their families to trust their carers, underscoring that such abusive conduct is entirely unacceptable. The actions of Sprunt have been met with widespread condemnation, and the Scottish Social Services Council has publicly announced his removal from the register, signaling a firm stance against abuse in care settings. Holmes Care Group, the organization responsible for managing Barrogil House, confirmed that it dismissed five employees in connection with the incident, although only Sprunt’s name has been publicly disclosed so far. The group has not issued further comments regarding the case or the ongoing investigations.