Falkirk postman: Royal Mail worker suspended after refusing to help a pensioner who had fallen in the snow
A postie in Falkirk has been suspended by the Royal Mail after he failed to help a 72-year-old who had fallen in the snow.
Bainsford resident Patricia Stewart slipped on the snow on Thursday morning, banging her head.
Video footage from a neighbouring property captured the moment a postman walked away from her, saying “I can’t help you pal” adding that he had been working since early that morning.
Luckily, Hermes delivery worker Karoline Domska (22) was in the area and able to help, staying with Patricia and calling for aid.
Sheryl Harkin’s, Patricia’s niece, said: “When I was told about this I couldn’t believe it was true – I thought there must be some misunderstanding.
"The when I saw the video footage I was just disgusted.
"I can’t accept this – it's no way for someone to treat another human being.”
Patricia is now recovering at home with a head injury.
A representative from Royal Mail visited Patricia at her home on Farm Street to apologise for the incident.
It is understood the postman in question had been suspended pending an investigation
A spokesperson said: “Royal Mail expects the highest standards of behaviour from our people while out on deliveries and collections at all times.
"We regularly remind our postmen and postwomen of the important role they play in their local communities.
“We were very sorry to learn about this incident, and for the distress this incident has caused.
“We have been in touch with the customer concerned to apologise and to inform them we are investigating this incident.”
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