Edinburgh care worker given warning after repeatedly using racist slur

An Edinburgh care worker has been given a warning after she was found to have repeatedly used a racist slur towards a colleague.

Whilst working an agency shift on September 2, 2024, Catherine Bell was found to have told a colleague that “Black foreigners don’t get vaccinations” and that “they pass diseases on to us”.

After the colleague responded, Bell allegedly said: “I don’t mean you, it’s all the Nigerians.”

In a conversation with another colleague, the carer repeatedly described them as a “p***”.

The Scottish Social Services Council found that Bell’s actions were “racially motivated”.

The report read: “You have admitted to some of the behaviour; however, you have not shown insight into your actions.

“You did not think what you had said or asked was insulting. There is a risk that this behaviour could be repeated, and if so, would likely cause emotional harm to your colleagues.”

A warning has been placed on Bell’s registration for a period of three years, and she must complete a training course.