Paramedics told they’re ‘too dirty’ to be served at McDonald’s

'There are far better and more respectful ways to talk to professional services in this traumatic period where we should all be helping each other.'

McDonald’s has apologised after an ambulance crew were told they were ‘too dirty’ to enter one of its restaurants.

The paramedics, who don’t want to be named, stopped off at an eatery in Blackburn, Lancashire, for lunch last Thursday.

However, when they tried to go inside to order some food, the group, who were in uniform, were refused entry as the restaurants are closed for walk-in takeaways.

One paramedic said: ‘It is purely being referred to by a supposedly reputable firm as dirty when we are in the worst NHS crisis in history.

‘There are far better and more respectful ways to talk to professional services in this traumatic period where we should all be helping each other.’

Another added: ‘It was poor terminology from staff to an overworked busy service simply wanting lunch.

‘We would happily ring up and collect or shout through a shut door our order but to be called ‘dirty’ as a professional service is heart-breaking at the moment.’

McDonald’s said they have investigated the incident and said staff were ‘polite’ and ‘professional’.

However, they have apologised for any ‘unintentional offence’ that may have been caused to the crew, which has attended the same restaurant in the past with no issue.

Due to the lockdown, no restaurants offer dine-in or table service and food must be ordered online.

Toilets and handwashing facilities remain open wherever possible but seating areas and children’s play areas are closed.

All drive-thrus and all McDelivery orders via Uber Eats and Just Eat, are contact-free and there is no physical contact between customers, employees and couriers wherever possible.

A McDonald’s spokesperson said: ‘Our restaurants are currently closed for walk-in takeaway, and this was explained to the customers at the time.

‘Following an investigation, our understanding is that the customer interaction was polite and professional, however, we apologise if there was any unintentional offence or confusion caused by the unavailability of walk-in takeaway.’

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