A Dundee carer has been struck off after a probe found she asked someone she cared for to buy goods worth £300.
The Scottish Social Services Council found Shirley Thomson convinced a client, identified only as AA, to spend money on their Studio credit account.
Thomson’s employer at the time of the incident has not been made public.
In addition to the £300, it was found Thomson had also used AA’s Studio shopping card to purchase fuel and clothing.
Carer took cash for cleaning services
The carer also accepted £12.50 from AA, who is described as vulnerable, in exchange for cleaning services.
Thomson, described in the report as “experienced” and with a good work history, has now been removed from the register of support workers in care at home services and banned from the profession.
The regulator said in its report Thomson had “exploited a vulnerable service user’s good nature” for her own financial gain.
Carer showed ‘lack of regret’
The report also criticised the “experienced” carer’s lack of regret and insight into her actions.
“We have therefore concluded there is a real risk of repetition,” it says.
The SSSC ruled out a less severe sanction, identifying a number of factors of concern including a lack of engagement with its investigation.
The report says: “Although you have admitted some of the allegations to your former employer, you have denied not paying the service user back, accepting money for fuel and cigarettes which are indicative of concealment of wrongdoing.”
Imposing a removal order, the SSSC said it was the most appropriate resolution to maintain public confidence.
Thomson did not contest the decision or ask for it to be referred to a full tribunal for further consideration.
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