Wigan social worker struck off over multiple failings

Social worker Shaun Woosey has been struck off the the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Register on the grounds of misconduct after serious failings over a protracted period put vulnerable service users at risk of harm.

A panel of the HCPC Conduct and Competence Committee heard that Mr Woosey was employed by Wigan Council in its Social Work Team with responsibility for children and families.

Following the appointment of a new Team Manager in March 2010, problems were highlighted with Mr Woosey’s work, with these concerns managed through formal proceedings from June 2011.

The Panel further heard testimony from a number of witnesses in relation to Mr Woosey’s failings with regards to report writing; following instructions and procedures; delaying the progression of cases; poor analytical skills and judgement in terms of risk assessment; not behaving openly and honestly with colleagues; poor record-keeping; poor communication with service users and colleagues; and dishonesty.

Panel Chair Jane Everitt commented: “The acts and omissions of Mr Woosey represent a significant departure from the standards of the profession. Taken collectively, the facts found proved amount to lack of competence and/or misconduct given the breadth of failings identified, the risk of repetition and the risk of potential harm in addition to the actual harm which resulted.”

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

Mr Woosey was not present or represented at the hearing.