Thurrock social worker struck off over counterfeit visa

Social worker David Longe has been struck off the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Register for dishonesty constituting misconduct, after using counterfeit immigration documents to secure employment at Thurrock Council.

A panel of the HCPC Conduct and Competence Committee heard that checks carried out by Comensura (working on behalf of Thurrock Council) in February 2012, raised concerns that the visa in Mr Longe’s passport might not be genuine. A review of the passport and visa by the Border Agency revealed a number of discrepancies and it was concluded that both the passport and the visa were counterfeit and fraudulently obtained.

During cross-examination, Mr Longe admitted that, at the date of obtaining employment, he did not hold indefinite leave to remain in the United Kingdom, and did not have any documentary evidence of his right to work in the UK to show to an employer.

Panel Chair Nicola Bastin commented: “In the absence of any official documentation to confirm his identity and immigration status, Mr Longe deliberately and dishonestly used counterfeit documentation to obtain employment. His dishonesty is aggravated by his persistent denial and lack of remorse.”

The Panel decided the most proportionate and appropriate sanction was to strike him from the Register.

Mr Longe was present and represented at the hearing.