2 Nursing Home Staff Suspended Over Dementia Doll 'Torture'

Ashbourne House nursing home in Middleton, Greater Manchester has suspended its two staff after a leaked video -- showing that the workers involved were taunting dementia patients by torturing their comfort dolls. Hence, bosses said to itv news that they are taking all the necessary action, including consulting employment lawyers.

"We take this very, very seriously. People like these should not be working in the care industry," the spokesperson of the care home said. He also said that they already filed a report to the appropriate authorities and an investigation will be carried out soon.

Since the welfare of the residents is the main priority of the institution, the representative added that the staff will be facing "disciplinary actions." And to ensure the families that they can still rely with confidence on the nursing home, the spokesperson said that they already informed the families of the patients about the action they intend to take.

The suspension has been carried out against the two staff after bosses saw the disturbing video. In the footage, the workers were seen snatching the dolls from the patients. One of the staff was even seen throwing a doll to the floor while loudly screaming, "die baby, die!" The other worker then can be heard, asking, "How do you feel that you've just done that? How do you feel?" Her colleague then replied, "Great, because [resident's name] is upset."

Although it is still unclear how and who released the footage, numerous reports claimed that the video and images were shared by one of the concerned staff on WhatsApp.

According to carehome, dolls are very beneficial for people with dementia. For one, dolls can halt patients' distressed and agitation. Likewise, there are many nursing homes that recommended the use of dolls to help treat patients who are suffering from Alzheimer.