Waltham Forest social worker struck off

A SOCIAL worker accused of inappropriate behaviour towards the mother of two children in his care has today been struck off the General Social Care Council (GSCC) register.

An eight-day hearing heard that Rodney Smith hugged and kissed the children’s mother, identified only as X, and gave personal information about himself to her, in contravention of rules.

The conduct hearing panel decided to remove Smith from the GSCC register, the severest sanction available.

This means he can no longer operate as a social worker.

He was alleged to have made inappropriate comments about Waltham Forest’s Council’s social services, telling X that black staff had been dismissed, because of racism.

He was accused of criticising Islam to X and promoting Christianity, telling X her children had been “taken by the devil” and giving her tapes of sermons.

Between November 2000 and January 2006, Smith had a sexual relationship with X, the hearing heard.

Mr Smith left the council of his own accord in October 2005, and a complaint was made against him after he left.

The council reported the matter to the GSCC.

Cllr Liaquat Ali, cabinet member for children, said he was “pleased” with the GSCC’s decision.

He said: ““Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents, particularly our most vulnerable, is the absolute highest priority for Waltham Forest Council.

“We have a huge responsibility as guardians of some of the most vulnerable people in the borough and we demand the very highest standards of practice in our staff.

“Although the circumstances surrounding this case were only brought to light once Mr Smith had left our employment, his actions were clearly unacceptable and the council has worked closely with the family concerned and the GSCC from the moment the issue was raised to ensure a satisfactory outcome.”