Social worker struck off over child protection failures

Social worker Lloyd Poutler has been struck off the HCPC Register after ignoring procedure and failing to act appropriately on Child Protection issues whilst employed as a social worker in the Emergency Duty Team by Telford and Wrekin Council.

A panel of the HCPC Conduct and Competence Committee heard that Mr Poulter had been subject to a referral in May 2013 after he missed key safeguarding concerns and failed to obtain adequate information from a referrer.

The Panel further heard that an audit of Mr Poulter’s caseload raised concerns in relation to two cases in which he failed to recognise and therefore respond appropriately to child protection issues. Following a disciplinary hearing in November 2013, Mr Poulter was subsequently dismissed.

Panel Chair Debbie Hill commented: “Lloyd Poulter chose on three occasions to ignore the procedures and failed to be alert to Child Protection issues and act appropriately on those issues. This placed the three service users at potential risk of harm.

“This disregard for relevant protocols and non-compliance with Child Protection procedures amounts to misconduct and not lack of competence.”

The Panel decided the most necessary and proportionate conclusion was to strike Mr Poulter from the Register.

Mr Poulter was not present or represented at the hearing.