“Always request identification from all staff calling to homes to provide home support”
The HSE has issued a warning to parents after a man posing as a worker arrived at the home of a disabled child amid abduction fears.
The Health Service Executive asked parents to ask for identification if anyone from the HSE is due to call to their home.
The unidentified man called to the home of a parent whose child requires home support disability services in the Midlands Louth/Meath area in May.
He claimed to be from the the HSE and was there to collect the child for an out-of-home, home support provision.
The HSE has now issued a warning letter to parents, seen by The Irish Mirror, which read: “The man knew the boy’s full name and he was wearing a mask and a hat.
“The mum reported that she was immediately suspicious and asked the man to present his ID,” the letter stated. “He did not provide any identification and left.”
The letter also asked parents to “ensure that you request identification from all staff calling to provide home support/community respite/summer camp provision for your child.”
In a statement to HerFamily, the HSE said: “HSE Midlands Louth Meath Community Healthcare Organisation was made aware of an incident late last month where a person claiming to be from the HSE i.e. Home Support worker, called to a home to collect a child for an out of home support provision. When the person was unable to provide ID, he left.
“HSE staff providing out of home support will only call upon prior arrangements in place. HSE staff carry photo ID.
“Notification has been issued to parents in receipt of home support to always request identification from all staff calling to homes to provide home support.
“The HSE also advises parents to report any suspicious activity or calls to the relevant authorities.
“This incident has been reported to An Garda Síochána and TUSLA.”
