A former children’s worker in Angus has been struck off following a probe into dishonest behaviour.
The SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council) stepped in when Lee Melvin was sacked for misconduct at Rossie Young People’s Trust in Montrose.
The council’s report concluded that former night care worker Mr Melvin dishonestly submitted an “evidence book” about an absconding incident in a bid to obtain obtain a higher qualification.
Rossie provides care and support for young people who require to spend time in a secure environment.
Between June 29 2012 and January 20 2014 Melvin submitted an evidence book falsely claiming he had ascertained if a resident had boarded a train; had contacted the child’s mother; had informed his line manager; had contacted the police, had emailed the duty sergeant; and had informed the out-of-hours social work team and the parent that the young person had failed to return safely.
He also failed to notify SSSC of his suspension from Rossie between February 18 and March 26 last year, and failed to notify them of his dismissal between March 26 and April 8 last year.
The council said service users, the public, colleagues and employers have the right to expect honesty and integrity from social service workers in whom they place their trust and confidence.
“By falsifying information to be used for the purposes of obtaining his SVQ3 qualification by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, the registrant demonstrated a lack of honesty and integrity that is expected and required of social service workers, which calls into question his suitability to work in social services.
“Such behaviour is not compatible with suitability to work in social services.
“The registrant failed to meet relevant standards of practice and care which focus upon working in a lawful, safe and effective way.”
The council added that he had “breached the trust and confidence that was placed in him”.
Mr Melvin was removed from the register of residential child care workers.