I work for myself as a dementia support worker.I have been in the care sector for 20 years. I was recently accused of sexual assault by someone that has advanced dementia. I was cleared of everything,this didnt go to court just a safeguarding meeting.This has turned my life upside down,i feel like my confidence has gone,im totally paranoid.I have felt every emotion under the sun.I am now at the very angry stage.The accuser has family and i have been told that i could bring a case against them on behalf of there relative who accused me.Is this correct?I just dont know what to do at the moment,i feel so hurt by all of this.I do realise this person has dementia and as such doesnt know what they are saying as they are deemed to not have capacity.I also realise that the vulnerable need to be protected.....but who protects the carers..????
As you say, as an experienced dementia support worker you know that these accusations are made and have to be investigated. I'm very, very sorry that it has happened to you, and hope that you are satisfied that the process itself was proportionate? - settled without its going to court, a safeguarding meeting which presumably resolved the issue.
I wonder: could the authority or agency which dealt with the safeguarding issue, having cleared your reputation, also point you towards advisors or organisations which could now help you deal with the aftermath?
It would be an unspeakable shame if an experienced person like you, with a long and unblemished track record, were lost to future clients.
I was also thinking along the same lines as Countrymouse, working to make sure your reputation remains untarnished. I'm uncertain a lawsuit is the best way to achieve that, although it may be able cover the costs of therapy for you.
Luckily the family were great as they knew it was all false.The client lived on her own but had a care agency go in at tea times and the client said something to one of them,who then in turn phoned the police.(which of course was the right thing).Its just my thoughts now are that i looked after her for well over five years and this happens...Do i even want to carry on...!!!
Im going on...i do apoligise,it just seems to help typing in all down....
Many thanks for listening/reading.