Bin crew praised for helping resident with dementia

A bin crew who helped an elderly woman with dementia to get safely back home have been praised for their caring actions.

Tameside Council waste operatives Terry McManus, Regan Higgin and Warren Sunderland were out on their rounds in Droylsden when they saw the woman wandering in the street looking vulnerable.

The crew gently guided the woman back to her property and ensured she got safely back inside and had support.

A neighbour, who witnessed the incident, called out to the crew to thank them and then contacted the council to praise their actions.

She said that although she had commended the crew personally she wanted to “extend the compliment upwards to management in recognition of someone going above and beyond” she added they “showed sympathy, empathy and concern” for her neighbour’s welfare and she wanted to pass on her thanks.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Environmental and Neighbourhood Services Cllr Laura Boyle said: “Our bin crews and other frontline staff are our eyes and ears in the community and it is always so heartwarming to hear where they have gone beyond their normal roles to help someone.

“Thank you and well done to the crew for your care and kindness with this vulnerable resident and thank you also to the neighbour who was thoughtful enough to contact us to compliment the crew and give well deserved recognition for their actions. It is always lovely for all concerned when someone goes to the trouble of giving positive feedback and highlighting good work.

“I know all our staff are committed to making a positive difference in the local community and this is a lovely example of how public-spirited and dedicated our workforce are and how much they are valued.”