A SOCIAL worker who failed to properly report an allegation of abuse has been banned from the profession.

A number of allegations of misconduct by Rosalind Shaw were upheld by an independent committee of the General Social Care Council (GSCC).

The 65-year-old, who worked for Waltham Forest Council’s Intermediate Care Assessment Team at Whipps Cross University Hospital, failed to report alleged abuse by a carer through the proper procedure.

She also failed to ensure the confidentiality of patient information, carry out adequate assessments and did not consult managers as required.

Shaw did not attend the committee hearing last week which heard evidence from her team manager, who told of her inability to follow the code of conduct.

The committee ruled that because of the persistent and serious nature of her behaviour Shaw should be removed from the social care register in order to protect the public.

Shaw qualified as a social worker in 1975 and was therefore an experienced professional, the committee heard.She had been working in the same team as cover for six months prior to being taken on permanently in December 2004.

The committee ruling stated: “As such it was reasonable to expect a high degree of familiarity with proper professional practice.

“These facts established a pattern of irresponsible behaviour.

“The registrant consistently failed to follow national standards and local procedures.

She disregarded the instructions of her manager.”

The committee found that Ms Shaw failed to safeguard two service users, identified only as Ms X and Mrs A, by her actions.

GSCC chairwoman Rosie Varley, said: “When social workers register with the GSCC, they agree to abide by a code of practice.

“The vast majority of social workers practice in accordance with the code, but where someone has failed to maintain standards of practice, the GSCC will take action to ensure standards are upheld and public confidence is maintained”.