The devastated family of Emma Price has launched a GoFundMe appeal to fund home adaptations if she returns home or to support charities if she dies.

Emma's family claim the 32-year-old overdosed on painkiller medication having twice complained to managers with allegations of bullying while working at the KFC branch in Pitsea.

KFC stated the allegations are being taken “extremely seriously” and an “urgent investigation” is underway.

Emma, a “homey” animal-lover from Basildon, reached out to the mental health charity MIND and was due to have her first appointment with them on Monday before the overdose.

She has no previous struggles with mental health and the day before her overdose, she came home to the house she shares with her parents and seemed “okay”.

Dad David Price, 60, who went down to the branch where Emma worked to try and get some answers after raising his own complaints three times, said money raised would help adapt the home, or tragically go towards mental health and anti-bullying charities and her funeral if she does not pull through.

Mr Price, a carer who visits his daughter everyday, said Emma suffered a stroke and brain damage. She is also now paralysed on her right side and is on a ventilator to keep her breathing.

Ms Day said: “I’ve cried so much I don’t have any tears left.”

The family are also considering steps to prosecute KFC for what they claim is a failure in their duty of care and to hold them liable for Emma’s injuries.

A KFC spokesman said: “Our thoughts are with Emma and her family at this difficult time. Maintaining a working environment that is safe and inclusive for all team members is essential for us a business.”

Visit gofundme.com/f/help-for-house-adaptation