A 65-year-old social worker has been removed from the Social Care Register by an independent committee of the General Social Care Council (GSCC) for misconduct.

During the four-day hearing, the committee heard allegations that Rosalind Shaw, who worked for the London Borough of Waltham Forest’s Intermediate Care Assessment Team (ICAT) based at Whipps Cross hospital, failed to meet standards of practice required as a social worker. The allegations included: failure to assess users of services in accordance with employer requirements; failure to report an allegation of abuse by a carer through the proper procedure; an inability to handle confidential patient information safely; and acting without management consultation.

Shaw did not attend the hearing at which the committee heard from several witnesses including Ms Shaw’s ICAT manager, who attested to her inability to adhere to correct procedures as set out in the code of practice for social workers, as well as to follow management instructions.

The committee concluded that in view of the persistent and serious nature of Rosalind Shaw’s behaviour and in order to protect the public, she should be removed from the Register. In reaching their decision, the committee highlighted the fact that Rosalind Shaw had “consistently failed to follow national standards and local procedures”. Her behaviour had an adverse impact on the performance and effectiveness of colleagues and staff in other agencies as well as failing to safeguard people who use services.

The GSCC’s Chair, Rosie Varley, said: “When social workers register with the General Social Care Council, they agree to abide by a code of practice. The vast majority of social workers practice in accordance with the code, but where someone has failed to maintain standards of practice, the GSCC will take action to ensure standards are upheld and public confidence is maintained”

The sanction has immediate effect and means that the registrant will not be able to practise as a social worker.