An Ayrshire care worker has been removed from her position for misconduct after being found to have misled her employer regarding her visits to a service user’s home. Traceyanne Tennant, employed by HRM Homecare Services Ltd, was also accused of physically abusing the service user’s dog by kicking it and lifting it by its neck. The incidents occurred between March 6, 2023, and April 19, 2023, leading to the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) determining that Tennant’s fitness to practice was impaired.
The SSSC highlighted that Tennant failed to attend scheduled visits for the full duration she recorded, attempting to deceive her employer about the time spent at the service user’s home. Her actions were considered dishonest and detrimental to the trust placed in her by the service user. Additionally, Tennant allowed unauthorized individuals to enter the service user’s home on two occasions, placing the service user at risk.
Furthermore, Tennant was found to have physically abused the service user’s dog on or around April 19, 2023, by kicking the dog’s leg, lifting it by the neck, and obstructing its mouth. The SSSC expressed concern about a pattern of behavior, noting a lack of insight into the potential harm caused. Despite having a work history since 2017 with no prior issues, Tennant’s actions were deemed serious and indicative of a breach of professional boundaries.
Given the severity of the behavior and the lack of reassurance against its recurrence, the SSSC issued a Removal Order as the most suitable response. The Council emphasized the importance of upholding trust and confidence in the social service profession and affirmed ongoing public protection concerns regarding Tennant’s conduct. While Tennant had no prior concerns, the SSSC raised doubts about her integrity and judgment, leading to the decision to remove her from practice.
The SSSC’s findings serve as a reminder of the essential values and professionalism expected in the social service sector. Tennant’s case underscores the significance of maintaining trust, honesty, and accountability in caring for vulnerable individuals and their pets, reinforcing the standards upheld by regulatory bodies to uphold high-quality care and safeguard service users’ well-being.