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Warnings that NHS home care in parts of the Highlands was over-stretched and failing were ignored for years before watchdogs stepped in, according to a union.
The GMB said workers repeatedly warned Sutherland Care at Home Service managers that visits were being missed or cut short due to "understaffing and unrealistic schedules".
Last month, the Care Inspectorate highlighted "serious and significant concerns" and said it could be closed down without immediate improvement.
NHS Highland said it would work closely with staff to put actions in place as soon as possible, adding that it had begun an investigation.
Care at Home offers support to people who find it difficult to manage daily routines.