Care worker who had sexual relationship with client banned from profession

A social care worker who had a sexual relationship with a service user has been banned from the profession.

Megan Neilson was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with the man between June and August 2022 at Hamilton Sheriff Court last year.

The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) found Neilson, from Airdrie, embarked on the relationship over a two-month period with a person she was providing care services to.

A report into her actions found that the behaviour occurred repeatedly, “indicating it was planned and deliberate rather than a spontaneous one-off lapse of judgement”.

Neilson had worked in the care sector since 2016.

The report added: “While you accept the seriousness of the allegation, you do not accept that you acted in the manner for which you have been convicted.”

It was decided that a removal order would be the most appropriate sanction to maintain the continuing trust and confidence in the social service profession.