A MENTAL health patient who was distressed by the actions of an occupational therapist who moved in with her has welcomed the decision to strike him off.

North East London Foundation Trust (NELFT) occupational therapist Shaun Gastall.

The middle-aged woman, identified only as Ms A, became distressed and lost confidence in those providing her care as a result of Mr Gastall’s behaviour, a Health Professions Committee (HPC) hearing decided.

Ms A said: “I am pleased that I saw this complaint through to the end, despite at times the negative response I had from some of his colleagues.

“I am happy with the decision because I know that this occupational therapist will not abuse any other service user in the way that I was.

 “All I can say is that no one should be treated in the same manner in which I was, and no one should have that amount of power over any vulnerable person.

“Although a long process and an emotional roller-coaster, I would encourage anyone in a similar situation to make a complaint as is your right.”

The hearing heard that Mr Gastall befriended Ms A after meeting her at an art exhibition.

During 2007 and 2008 Mr Gastall borrowed money from Ms A, lived with her on two separate occasions and caused her distress by drinking excessively.

The committee also heard that Mr Gastall, who was not directly responsible for Ms A's care, borrowed money from the woman and disclosed confidential information, telling her that her keyworker found her “difficult to deal with”.

Mr Gastall also told her if she told anyone he was living with her she would lose access to services.