A former paramedic who was dismissed for falsely claiming her sister was sick to take a day off work has been found working on a hospital ward. Natalie Twomey fabricated her sister’s illness to obtain time off but was exposed when her sister shared photos on Facebook displaying her festive activities.
Following an investigation by the Health and Care Professions Tribunal Service (HCPTS), it was revealed that Twomey had deceived her employer, the London Ambulance Service, leading to her removal from the paramedic role. She was also accused of arriving at work under the influence of alcohol and submitting fraudulent claims for hours worked.
Despite losing her paramedic position, Twomey has transitioned to a healthcare support role at the NHS Torbay and South Devon Trust, where she is pursuing training to become a nurse. Recently, she shared a picture on social media showing her on duty at the hospital during the holiday season.
Although barred from working as a paramedic, Twomey faces no such restrictions in her current job, which falls under the oversight of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). During the tribunal, it was disclosed that she had provided misleading information to her former employer and failed to disclose limitations placed on her practice during registration renewal with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Twomey’s employment with the London Ambulance Service was terminated due to performance issues, including attendance irregularities and misrepresentation of her health conditions. She expressed regret for her actions and acknowledged responsibility for the consequences.
The Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, where Twomey currently works, emphasized adherence to strict recruitment and safeguarding protocols and refrained from commenting on her past employment issues.