An Ayrshire care assistant has been removed from her position after engaging in a ‘prolonged’ sexual relationship with a service user and then threatening to accuse him of rape when their relationship was investigated. Leigh-anne McCartney attempted to initiate sexual activity with the man in a car before engaging in sexual relations on multiple occasions in a basement and a Premier Inn, according to the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).
The SSSC stated that the inappropriate interactions occurred between June 2022 and around April 19, 2023. McCartney, who worked in Saltcoats but was employed by a Kilwinning-based care firm at the time of the incidents, deleted data from the service user’s phone to cover up the relationship, which the SSSC deemed as dishonest behaviour. On another occasion, McCartney threatened the service user, known as ‘AA,’ with false rape allegations if he disclosed details of their relationship.
During the investigation, McCartney denied the allegations, although some claims, such as engaging in sexual activity in a tent, were dropped. However, a text message sent by McCartney on March 19, 2024, further demonstrated the nature of their relationship and McCartney’s responses to the situation.
The SSSC found McCartney’s actions to be severe professional misconduct, breaching the boundaries that should exist between social services workers and service users. Their report highlighted the significant harm inflicted on the service user and the lack of remorse or concern shown by McCartney. As a result, McCartney’s fitness to practise was deemed impaired, leading to her removal from her position.
The SSSC concluded that a Removal Order was necessary to uphold public trust and confidence in the social service profession. McCartney’s behaviour was considered extreme, and the Panel believed that the public would be shocked if she were allowed to remain registered. The SSSC emphasised the ongoing risk posed by McCartney’s actions and the need to maintain professional standards within the sector.
In summary, the case of Leigh-anne McCartney underscores the importance of upholding professional boundaries and ethical conduct in care settings. The repercussions of engaging in inappropriate relationships with service users can have a profound impact, not only on the individuals involved but also on the wider community’s trust in social service professionals. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance, accountability, and strict adherence to codes of conduct to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in care settings.