‘I felt disgusted’: Muslim Man Given Ham at UK Care Home
The incident occurred earlier this week at Linden House, located on Delph Lane near Royal Blackburn Hospital. The resident, who lives with a severe medical condition and has limited mobility, said he was expecting a cheese and onion quiche but instead was given one that contained ham.
Speaking anonymously, the resident said the experience left him feeling physically ill, the Lancashire Telegraph reported on Sunday.
“I felt quite disgusted, to be honest,” he said. “I have never had pork in my life, and I took some bites and knew immediately something was not right.”
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He explained that he began vomiting shortly afterward due to what he described as a violation of his religious beliefs.
“This is against my beliefs and my religion,” he added.
According to the resident, he had specifically asked if the meal was halal when it was served. He said he had been assured in the past that his dietary needs—halal or vegetarian—were being met during his four-month stay at the facility.
“Normally, when the food is served, the beans are put on the side of the main dish,” he said. “But, in this case, they were poured on top of the quiche, so I really had no choice but to eat it.”
He also noted that he happened to photograph the meal while texting friends before taking his first bite, which later served as evidence of the mistake.
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Once the issue was raised, a staff member reportedly removed the meal. However, the resident said he has yet to receive a formal apology from the care home’s management.
“I have not had the manager come to see me and apologise yet. It is the least you can do,” he said.
Linden House Care Home, which received a "Good" rating in all categories following a 2023 inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), has been contacted for comment. As of the time of publication, no official response has been issued.
Source: Agencies
