Aberdeen childcare worker handed six-month warning after assault conviction for attacking two women

A childcare worker in Aberdeen has been given a six-month warning by the care watchdog after attacking two women.

Sarah Wood had been working for an Aberdeen nursery since January 2023; however, she had stepped away from the profession during the criminal investigation, according to a report released by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).

This was due to a “moment of madness”, as Wood called it back in July 2024.

On July 13, 2024, Wood assaulted a female security guard by headbutting her.

Afterwards, Wood assaulted another woman by pushing her, repeatedly seizing her hair and struggling with her before punching her on the head and repeatedly threatening to kill her.

Wood’s actions resulted in the second woman suffering a broken nose.

She was convicted at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on August 26, 2025.

In addition, Wood was under investigation by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).

The newly released SSSC report noted that the assault occurred outside of work and involved an “ex-colleague and friend”.

The report stated: “This was an isolated incident that occurred when you were under the influence of alcohol. That being said, you did assault and injure more than one person.

“There are no previous concerns about your behaviour, and your employer stated this behaviour was very out of character.”

In statements made to the SSSC, Wood said she deeply regretted what happened and that her behaviour was “unacceptable and inappropriate”. She went on to call it “totally out of character” and a “moment of madness”.

According to the report, Wood’s criminal justice social worker states that she is no longer a threat to the public and has made the necessary amends related to her conviction.

The SSSC raised concerns that Wood’s behaviour was violent and aggressive, but considered her regret and apology to be genuine.

Therefore, the SSSC issued a warning that will remain on Wood’s file for six months.