A former paramedic who was dismissed for falsely claiming her sister was ill to take a day off work is now employed on a hospital ward, recent revelations show.
Natalie Twomey fabricated her sister’s illness to secure time off but was exposed when her sister shared images on social media putting up Christmas decorations.
Following an investigation by the Health and Care Professions Tribunal Service (HCPTS), it was determined that she had deceived her employer, the London Ambulance Service, resulting in her paramedic license being revoked. Additionally, she was found to have arrived at work under the influence of alcohol and had dishonestly billed for more hours than worked.
Despite losing her paramedic position, Twomey is currently working as a health care support worker at the NHS Torbay and South Devon Trust and is pursuing a nursing career.
Twomey recently shared a photo on social media showing her at work on a hospital ward with colleagues in front of a Christmas tree, captioned “Merry Xmas.”
She has showcased her new hospital job on social media, including working on Christmas Day. The HCPTS ruling confirmed her transition to a new profession. The NHS Torbay and South Devon Trust has been approached by the Mirror for comments.
Although barred from working as a paramedic, Twomey faces no restrictions in her current role, regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
During the investigation, it was revealed that while at the London Ambulance Service in November 2022, Twomey falsely claimed her sister’s health had worsened, preventing her from attending work. However, evidence of festive decorations on her sister’s social media cast doubt on her claim.
Further disclosures during the hearing included Twomey being reassigned from front-line duties after showing up to work smelling of alcohol.
Twomey failed to disclose her employment restrictions when renewing her registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
She was let go from the London Ambulance Service at the end of 2023 due to performance issues and absenteeism. Twomey admitted to the panel her accountability for the situation, attributing her actions to being out of character.
The Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust stated that Twomey works as a health care support worker and emphasized their adherence to recruitment standards and safeguarding protocols.
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