A situation involving the discovery of a deceased mouse inside a staff member’s bag at a specialized school has brought attention to an alleged vermin infestation issue. Employees at Kaimes Special School in Edinburgh have raised concerns about the ongoing presence of mice and flies, which have been causing problems for months. This issue has led to droppings being found in students’ work areas, raising significant health worries. The staff described the situation as “infested,” especially after a dead rodent was found in a support assistant’s bag. To address the problem, pest control teams from the council have been summoned. Kaimes caters to children with autism and additional support requirements.
An email circulated among staff on Thursday, September 25, highlighted the health risks at the school. The message emphasized the disorderly state of the staffroom, with mice discovered in unopened food containers and even in a staff member’s bag. The presence of flies indicated a potential source of contamination, demanding heightened vigilance.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the school’s condition, a staff member voiced concerns about the impact on pupil health and well-being. They lamented the ongoing infestation of mice and flies, noting the pervasive presence of droppings and deceased rodents in both school buildings, labeling it as “disgusting.” The staff member further expressed distress at the thought of potential bacterial exposure and the apparent lack of regard for the health and safety of pupils and employees by the council.
Councillor James Dalgleish, Convener of Education, Children, and Families, acknowledged the raised concerns and confirmed that the council’s pest control team had assessed the situation and initiated a control program. Collaborative efforts with school staff will continue through inspections and assessments to manage risks effectively and ensure that health and safety measures are implemented.